Serious security breach: Israeli citizen swam across the border from Eilat to Jordan

A serious security breach has occurred in the Gulf of Eilat. An Israeli citizen crossed the maritime border, swimming from Eilat to Aqaba, Jordan, without being detected. The individual was held in Jordan for over two weeks before being returned to Israel.

Navy vessels performing routine security operations in the Red Sea and maritime police patrols failed to notice the citizen crossing the border. The military was only informed of the event by the Liaison Unit for Foreign Forces (YAKALZ) after the man was found ashore and arrested by Jordanian security forces.

The incident has sparked concern among Eilat residents, particularly following warnings from Shin Bet chief David Zini, who stated months ago that "the next October 7 could take place in Eilat" via maritime or land infiltration from Jordan or Egypt.

Security officials are currently investigating how the citizen managed to cross the border so easily.

Earlier this month, the Israel Police issued a missing person report for a man from Ashdod who was believed to be in Eilat. His vehicle was discovered abandoned in the area, prompting a search.

On August 3, 2026, the man attempted to cross into Jordan via the Rabin border crossing but was denied exit. A day later, he successfully swam to Aqaba, where he was detained by Jordanian authorities for interrogation.

Jordanian authorities notified Israel of the arrest but did not immediately release him. After nearly two weeks in detention, he was transferred back to Israel earlier this week.

The IDF Spokesperson's Unit stated:

"The citizen was returned to Israeli territory by land. The incident has been transferred to the Israel Police for handling, and an internal investigation is simultaneously being conducted by the IDF."