Saudi Arabia: Saudi-led coalition intercepts six Houthi-fired missiles targeting Jizan August 25 /update 4

Event

The Saudi-led coalition fighting Houthi rebels in Yemen reportedly intercepted and destroyed six missiles fired by Houthi militants toward Jizan on Sunday, August 25. A spokesman for the Houthi rebels claimed that the group had fired ten missiles at Jizan Regional Airport (GIZ), killing and wounding dozens; the Houthi claim could not be immediately substantiated.

Similar Houthi attacks targeting Saudi infrastructure and facilities are possible over the coming weeks.

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.

Yemen is engaged in a complex and deadly conflict, ongoing since Houthi rebels entered into a civil war with the Yemeni government, supported by a Saudi-led coalition, in 2015. The Saudi-led coalition has carried out thousands of airstrikes in Yemen since its intervention began. Hundreds of Yemeni civilians have been killed in the strikes, which have hit schools, hospitals, and markets, in addition to Houthi militant positions and personnel. In total, more than 10,000 Yemenis have died in the fighting and some 3 million have been displaced.

Advice

Individuals in Jizan and flying via GIZ are advised to monitor developments, confirm flight reservations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Seek shelter immediately in the event of a missile or drone attack.