Saudi Arabia: Houthis claim drone attacks on Khamis Mushait, Abha Airport (AHB), Najran Airport (EAM) August 5

Event

Houthi militants claimed on Monday, August 5, to have launched drone attacks on the King Khalid Air Base in Khamis Mushait, as well as the Abha International Airport (AHB), and Najran Regional Airport (EAM).

The claim was not immediately confirmed by Saudi authorities. Flight disruptions (e.g. delays and cancelations) are possible at AHB and EAM 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 flying via AHB and EAM are advised to monitor developments, confirm flight reservations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments. Seek shelter immediately in the event of a missile attack.