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EILAT, ISRAEL — May 7, 2025 — A tragic boat collision off the coast of Eilat’s Netivot Beach on Wednesday afternoon resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries, emergency responders confirmed.
The incident occurred in the early afternoon when two boats collided near the popular Red Sea shoreline, causing one vessel to capsize. Paramedics from Magen David Adom (MDA) and volunteers from United Hatzalah rushed to the scene to provide immediate medical assistance to the individuals brought back to shore.
United Hatzalah reported that 11 people were treated at the scene. Among them, one person succumbed to their injuries despite resuscitation efforts. Two others sustained moderate injuries, while eight were reported to have suffered light injuries or were treated for acute anxiety triggered by the traumatic incident.
Images from the scene show United Hatzalah medics stationed on the Eilat shoreline as rescue operations unfolded, providing urgent care to the victims and coordinating with other emergency services. The swift response of first responders was critical in preventing further loss of life, witnesses said.
Magen David Adom confirmed the fatality and stated that the injured individuals were transported to Yoseftal Medical Center in Eilat for further treatment. Their identities have not yet been released pending family notifications.
The Israel Police have launched an investigation into the collision, which is currently being treated as a maritime accident. Officers are also continuing search efforts in the surrounding waters to ensure that no other passengers were involved or remain unaccounted for.
“Divers and search teams are combing the area to rule out the possibility of additional casualties,” said a police spokesperson. “Our top priority is to ensure that everyone who may have been on board is located and accounted for.”
Local beachgoers and tourists expressed shock as the accident unfolded in the usually tranquil waters of the resort town. Some who witnessed the incident described scenes of panic and chaos as passengers were thrown into the sea upon impact.
“I heard a loud crash and then screaming,” said Tal Cohen, a visitor from Tel Aviv who was on a nearby boat. “It took a few moments before people realized what had happened, and then emergency teams were everywhere.”
Netivot Beach, a popular destination for recreational boating and diving, remained cordoned off by authorities for several hours after the crash as rescue and investigation teams continued their work.
As of Wednesday evening, the cause of the collision has not been publicly disclosed, and it is unclear whether either vessel violated local maritime regulations. Police have indicated that interviews with survivors and boat operators are underway.
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with recreational boating and the importance of adhering to safety protocols on the water. Maritime authorities are urging all boaters in the area to exercise increased caution.
Further updates are expected as the investigation continues and the identities of those involved are confirmed.