Saudi Arabia: Missile intercepted near Yemeni border Jan. 11-12

Event

A missile launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen was intercepted over the Saudi city Najran, located near the Yemeni border, by the Saudi air defense system overnight January 11-12. Houthi rebels stated that a Saudi military base in the Najran region was the intended target of the Qaher 2-M ballistic missile.

This is the fifth Houthi missile to be intercepted by the Saudis since November 4. Two of the missiles were intercepted over the capital Riyadh and three in the south of the country; none have resulted in casualties.

Context

Saudi Arabia is engaged in the Yemeni civil war, supporting the government against a rebellion by Houthi separatists ongoing since 2015. Southern Saudi Arabia is a frequent target of Houthi attacks. Since the beginning of the conflict in 2015, more than 80 missiles have been fired from Yemen towards Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, Houthi rebels often cross into Saudi territory to carry out attacks against Saudi soldiers.

Advice

Some foreign governments advise their nationals to avoid the Yemeni border area, notably the city of Najran, due to the risk of further attacks.