24 Sep 2019 | 05:43 PM UTC
Saudi Arabia: Saudi-led coalition claims downing of Houthi missiles over Yemen September 24 /update 4
Saudi-led coalition claims downing of Houthi missiles launched from Sana'a on September 24; similar Houthi missile attacks possible over the near term
Event
The Saudi-led coalition fighting Houthi rebels in Yemen reportedly intercepted and destroyed two ballistic missiles launched from Sana'a province toward Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, September 24. The missiles were shot down over Saada and Amran provinces; no information as to their intended targets was immediately provided. There has been no official statement from the Houthi rebels on the reported incident as of Tuesday evening (local time).
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. On September 14, Houthi rebels allegedly launched drone attacks on major oil facilities in Buqayq (Eastern Province) and at the Khurais oil field, causing fires and significant damage. Saudi officials claimed the weapons used in the attacks were made in Iran amid heightened tensions between the regional rivals.
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 Saudi Arabia are advised to monitor developments and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments. Seek shelter immediately in the event of a missile attack.
