Weapons in the Sky: IDF Stops Drone Smuggling Operation Near Jordan

Israel’s borders witnessed two unusual security incidents on Wednesday night, raising questions about the growing complexity of threats along the nation’s frontiers.

According to the IDF, soldiers operating in the Paran Brigade sector identified a drone crossing from Israel’s western border in what appeared to be a weapons smuggling attempt. Forces were scrambled, intercepted the drone, and seized its cargo: six rifles, ten handguns, and several ammunition magazines. The weapons were transferred to Israeli security forces for further investigation.

At the same time, police in Eilat received reports of a jet ski that had crossed the maritime border into Jordan. Naval police units, assisted by IDF maritime forces in the Red Sea arena, located the riders—two residents of Jerusalem—and escorted them back to Israel.

In a statement, police said: “The two individuals were detained for questioning at the Eilat district police station and later released under restrictive conditions.” Authorities emphasized that unauthorized border crossings, especially in sensitive maritime zones like the Gulf of Eilat, constitute a criminal offense and may lead to prosecution.

Police further urged the public: “Crossing maritime borders without authorization is strictly prohibited by law. We call on all sea users to act responsibly and avoid approaching international borders while engaging in water activities.”

The IDF, meanwhile, underscored that the drone interception highlights ongoing efforts to combat weapons smuggling attempts across Israel’s borders, a challenge that has become increasingly sophisticated in recent years.