10 Sep 2019 | 09:52 AM UTC
Saudi Arabia: Saudi-led coalition claims downing of Houthi drone September 10 /update 7
Saudi-led coalition claims downing of Houthi drone launched from Sanaa September 10; Houthi drone attacks remain possible over the coming weeks
Event
The Saudi-led coalition fighting Houthi rebels in Yemen reportedly downed a Houthi drone launched from Sanaa towards Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, September 10. There has been no immediate official statement from the Houthi rebels on the reported incident.
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 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.
