16 Jul 2019 | 08:23 AM UTC
Saudi Arabia: Two Houthi drones intercepted July 15
Authorities claim to have intercepted Houthi drones targeting Khamis Mushait July 15; similar attacks possible over coming days
Event
On Monday, July 15, Saudi authorities claimed they intercepted a Houthi drone which targeted civilian areas in the city of Khamis Mushait. Saudi forces also destroyed a second drone launched from Yemen, preventing it from entering Saudi airspace.
Similar Houthi militant attacks targeting Saudi 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.
