Saudi Arabia: Houthi drone attack wounds five in Abha July 2 /update 14

Event

Houthi militants claimed a drone attack targeting Abha International Airport (AHB) during the early morning hours (local time) of Tuesday, July 2. According to Saudi officials, the incident occurred at approximately 00:35. Local media sources reported that five people were wounded in the attack, but no casualties were confirmed by Saudi authorities.

Flight disruptions (e.g. delays and cancelations) are possible at AHB over the coming hours. Similar Houthi militant attacks targeting Saudi infrastructure and facilities are possible over the coming days.

Context

Houthi rebels have claimed several missile attacks targeting Saudi facilities and infrastructure since late May 2019. The group has targeted airports in Abha, Jizan, and Najran. A Houthi-claimed missile attack wounded 26 people at the arrivals hall at Abha International Airport (AHB) on June 12. Material damage was also reported.

Reports estimate that Houthi militants have fired over 200 missiles at Saudi Arabia since 2015, when Saudi Arabia began backing the Yemeni government against Houthi separatists in the Yemeni Civil War. Southern Saudi Arabia is a frequent target of Houthi missile attacks, and Riyadh has also seen several missile attacks in the last several months; however, they rarely result in substantial damages or casualties.

Advice

Individuals in the affected area are advised to monitor developments and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments. Confirm flight reservations before departing for AHB. Seek shelter immediately in the event of a missile attack.