On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, a boat carrying several children capsized off Netivot Beach in Eilat’s Gulf of Eilat following a collision with another vessel, prompting a swift response from emergency services. Magen David Adom (MDA) reported receiving a call at 17:53 at their 101 call center in the Negev region about the incident. According to their preliminary report, MDA medics and paramedics provided treatment to eight passengers rescued to shore by marine police, including two in moderate condition and six in mild condition. The Israel Police confirmed that Eilat district forces, including marine police, are handling the accident, evacuating multiple injured individuals with varying degrees of injuries and conducting searches for additional passengers.
The collision occurred in the busy Gulf of Eilat, a popular area for water sports and tourism, though specific details about the boats involved, such as their type or purpose, remain unclear. Reports indicate children were among those on board, heightening community concern. Eilat’s marine police are leading rescue and search operations, with ongoing efforts to ensure all individuals are accounted for. The incident has disrupted activities along Netivot Beach, a key recreational spot in the city, which has faced economic challenges due to Houthi attacks impacting its port since November 2023, as noted in a 2024 Media Line report.
MDA emphasized that their report is preliminary, with updates expected as the situation develops. The Israel Police statement, released via their spokesperson, underscored the active response: “Eilat district police forces, including marine police officers, are currently handling a vessel accident resulting from a capsize in the Gulf of Eilat. Several injured people with varying degrees of injuries have been evacuated from the scene. Police forces are at the location conducting searches and locating additional involved individuals.” This incident recalls a 2007 Eilat boat collision where two teens were critically injured, highlighting the potential dangers of water activities in the region.
Authorities have not yet released information on the cause of the collision or the total number of passengers involved. The focus remains on ensuring the safety of those affected, evacuating them for treatment, and preventing further incidents in this vital coastal area.
