The Hebrew newspaper Calcalist revealed that the Port of Eilat is facing a severe financial crisis, having accumulated millions of shekels in unpaid property taxes owed to the Eilat Municipality in recent months.

In response, the Eilat Municipality froze the port’s bank accounts, prompting the Israeli Ports and Maritime Authority to announce the suspension of all port operations starting next Sunday.

The newspaper noted that the port’s closure carries repercussions beyond mere economic concerns, as it is considered a strategic national asset and represents Israel’s southern gateway.

In an official letter, the Israeli National Emergency Management Authority warned that the closure of the Port of Eilat would result in a complete halt to the movement of its tugs and ships.

Commenting on the decision, the Eilat Port Authority expressed deep dissatisfaction, stating, “During the coronavirus crisis, the government rescued airlines and fashion companies, which are now reaping huge profits. Yet today, it is abandoning vital national infrastructure without paying a single shekel.

The administration added angrily, “The government is throwing us out like dogs, and this is unacceptable. Closing the port is a victory for the Houthis in their war against Eilat and the Israeli economy,” it stated.