Eilat

On March 10, 1949, Israeli forces captured the area of Umm Rashrash, which is now known as Eilat, marking the end of the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. The capture was part of Operation Uvda, the last operation of the war, and established Israeli control over the southern part of the Negev Desert, including its strategic Red Sea coastline.

Eilat was officially declared a city in July 1951. This development was part of Israel's strategic initiative to develop its southernmost region and secure its access to the Red Sea. The establishment of Eilat as a city was crucial for Israel's maritime trade and development, leading to significant investment and settlement in the region.

The port of Eilat was opened in 1956, transforming the city into a significant trade route. The Port of Eilat provided Israel with a link to Africa and Asia that bypassed the Suez Canal, which was often troubled by geopolitical tensions. This opening marked a boost in Eilat's economy and the country's international trade capabilities.

During the Six-Day War in June 1967, the city of Eilat played a strategic role due to its location at the border with Egypt. The Israeli Navy used Eilat as a base to control the Red Sea and Gulf of Aqaba, securing crucial maritime routes and ensuring the continued import and export of goods despite regional instability.

In August 1981, Eilat hosted part of the historic peace talks between Israel and Egypt that aimed to solidify the peace agreement and discuss further normalization of relationships. The location was symbolic of cooperation between the two countries, emphasizing the importance of Eilat as a bridge for peace in the region.

On October 26, 1994, the Israel-Jordan peace treaty was signed, with Eilat as one of the symbolic locations of the peace process. The treaty normalized relations between the two countries, leading to increased cooperation and economic ties. Eilat's proximity to the Jordanian city of Aqaba was seen as a testament to peaceful coexistence between neighbors.

On January 29, 2007, a suicide bomber detonated explosives in a bakery in Eilat, killing three people. This was the first terrorist attack in the city in over three years, highlighting ongoing security concerns despite efforts for peace in the region. The attack shocked the local community and led to increased security measures in the area.

On December 9, 2010, plans for a new international airport in Eilat were announced. The new airport, named Ramon Airport, was proposed to expand tourism and international connectivity in the region. This development aimed to replace the aging Eilat Airport located within the city and support growth in international tourist arrivals.

Ramon Airport, located 18 kilometers north of Eilat, was officially opened on January 21, 2018. The airport was named after Ilan Ramon, Israel's first astronaut. The opening of Ramon Airport marked a significant boost in Eilat's infrastructure, allowing it to handle larger aircraft and more international flights, thus supporting tourism growth.

In September 2020, Coral World Eilat underwent a major expansion, enhancing its marine park and aquarium facilities. This expansion included new exhibits and educational facilities, further establishing Eilat as a center for marine education and tourism. The development was part of broader efforts to promote environmental conservation and raise awareness about the Red Sea's unique marine ecosystem.