Saudi Arabia: Missile intercept injures 23 in Najran September 5 /update 11

Event

Shrapnel from an intercepted missile injured at least 23 people below in Najran (Najran province) on Wednesday, September 5, according to the Saudi military. Saudi air defense systems intercepted the missile, which was fired from Sa'ada governorate in northern Yemen, above the Saudi city of Najran at 20:08 (local time) on Wednesday evening. Houthi militants are suspected of firing the missile.

Context

The Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen reported that Houthi forces in northern Yemen have fired around 200 ballistic projectiles since Saudi forces became involved in the Yemeni war in 2015. Southern Saudi Arabia is a frequent target of Houthi missile attacks, though Riyadh has also been a target in recent months. Saudi air defenses systems regularly intercept the incoming missiles.

Saudi forces have been fighting Houthi rebels in Yemen since 2015, when Houthi forces took over Sana'a and significant portions of northern and western Yemen from Yemeni government forces.

Advice

In the event of a missile attack, individuals in Saudi Arabia are advised to seek shelter, monitor developments to the situation, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.