Saudi Arabia: Al-Wadea land border crossing reopened Nov. 9

Event

On Thursday, November 9, the Saudi-led coalition reopened the al-Wadea land border crossing which connects Saudi Arabia to eastern Yemen, currently controlled by a Saudi-backed government. This decision will allow food and other supplies to enter Yemen, alleviating the blockade imposed on the country on November 6.

Context

On November 6, the Saudi-led coalition announced a temporary closure of all land borders, seaports, and airports in Yemen. The decision came two days after a ballistic missile was intercepted in the Saudi capital Riyadh, resulting in an explosion at King Khalid International Airport (RUH). The Saudi-led coalition blamed Houthi rebels for launching the missile at the airport, and accused Iran of supporting them. The closures are reportedly aimed at curbing the flow of arms from Iran to the rebels. On November 8, officials and witnesses claimed that the blockade of the Aden seaport was lifted, allowing the port to resume work and receive humanitarian aid.

The southern region of Saudi Arabia is a frequent target of Houthi attacks and cross-border incidents are common. Missiles fired from inside Yemen often land on Saudi soil or are intercepted by Saudi air defense systems and Houthi rebels often cross into Saudi territory to target Saudi soldiers.

Advice

Individuals in Saudi Arabia are advised to remain vigilant, to monitor the situation via local media sources, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.