Israeli Media on Yemen’s Strikes: They Know Exactly Where to Hit
The report explains that with the springtime Passover holidays approaching—a season traditionally favorable for travel to Israel—the tourism sector now faces a renewed threat from Houthi attacks
Occupied Palestine - According to the Hebrew outlet The Media Line, Israel’s tourism industry is once again on the brink of collapse after a brief ceasefire brought temporary relief and partial recovery for airlines ahead of the Passover holidays.
The report explains that with the springtime Passover holidays approaching—a season traditionally favorable for travel to Israel—the tourism sector now faces a renewed threat from Houthi attacks from Yemen.
After a brief period of calm during the ceasefire in Gaza, signs of a cautious rebound had emerged in Israel’s tourism scene. However, hopes for a full recovery remain uncertain due to ongoing conflict, airline hesitation, and shifting travel demographics.
Ministry acknowledges fragile stability
Ami Alon, head of marketing at Israel’s Ministry of Tourism, told The Media Line, “Most international airlines have returned. Travel advisories have been downgraded, and demand from both Jewish and Christian worlds remains strong. But everything depends on continued stability.”
That stability appears to be fragile. Late last month, the Houthis deliberately targeted Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport. Although Israel’s air defenses are likely to intercept such strikes before causing physical damage, the psychological and operational impacts on the tourism and aviation sectors are substantial.
Airlines ready to pull out again
International airlines have confirmed that they will withdraw immediately if rockets once again fall near Ben Gurion Airport.
Mark Feldman, CEO of Jerusalem-based Ziontours, warned that international travelers are risking their trips if they choose any airline other than the local Israeli carriers El Al, Arkia, or Israir. He stated, “Foreign airlines have made it clear—they’ll pull out instantly if missiles hit near Ben Gurion again.”
Strategic targeting of tourism
This concern is far from hypothetical. The Houthis have already launched ballistic missiles toward central Israel. While these attacks have been intercepted so far, the threat significantly undermines regional stability.
“The Houthis know exactly what they’re doing,” Feldman said. “They’re targeting the airport because they understand that hurting tourism causes both economic and psychological damage to Israel—and unfortunately, it’s working.”
Hotel industry suffers severe decline
According to Tali Tenenbaum, Vice President of the Israeli Hotels Association, the hotel industry has experienced a dramatic 70% drop compared to 2023, prior to the events of October 7.
Luxury hotels such as The Norman in Tel Aviv have been forced to implement drastic changes. Yannick, the hotel’s guest experience manager, explained to The Media Line, “We had to adapt quickly. At first, the changes were major. So, we launched special weekend packages for locals and canceled nearly all cancellation fees due to the war.”
Guests are now briefed on security protocols during check-in—including where to go during sirens, how to use bomb shelters, and what to expect during emergencies.
Luxury scaled down, policies unclear
Hotels have had to make budget-conscious adjustments without compromising on luxury. “We’ve replaced expensive amenities with thoughtful alternatives and adopted flexible check-out times,” Yannick said.
“We also carefully explain our safety procedures—where to go when you hear a siren, how to use the shelters, what to expect.”
He also voiced frustration with the Israeli government for its lack of clarity on new travel policies, including a recent requirement for visa-exempt travelers to apply for electronic travel authorization.
“Suddenly, guests had to register in advance and pay online,” he added. “Many were confused and frustrated. This kind of bureaucracy, especially in times like these, is incredibly damaging.”
Christian tourism vanishes
Feldman noted that one group not expected to visit Israel this holiday season is Christian pilgrims. Before the war, many Christians would travel to Israel during Passover season—but now, that presence has nearly vanished. (PW)
Source: Al-Masirah