05 Sep 2019 | 12:36 PM UTC
Saudi Arabia: Houthis claim missile attack targeting Najran airport and Khamis Mushait air base September 5 /update 6
Houthis reportedly fire rockets at Najran Regional Airport (EAM) and King Khalid Air Base (Khamis Mushait) on September 5; similar attacks likely in the near term
Event
A spokesman for the Houthi rebels claimed on Thursday, September 5, that the group had launched rockets and suicide drones targeting the King Khalid Air Base located in Khamis Mushait as well as the Najran Regional Airport (EAM). This claim was not immediately substantiated.
Similar Houthi attacks targeting Saudi infrastructure and facilities, including airports, 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 flying via 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.
