Saudi Arabia: Drone intercepted at Abha International Airport August 30

Event

The Saudi-led coalition intercepted and destroyed an explosive-laden drone at Abha International Airport (AHB) on Sunday, August 30, according to the Saudi Press Agency. Reportedly, as a result of intercepting the drone, some splinters fell on the airport, but no injuries or damages were reported. Air traffic at the airport was proceeding as normal.

Separately on Sunday, the Saudi-led coalition also reportedly intercepted and destroyed a remotely controlled explosive-laden boat in the south of the Red Sea, believed to have been launched from Yemen's port city of Hodeidah. 

Further cross-border attacks are possible in areas close to the Yemen border over the near term.

Context

Houthi militants have reportedly fired hundreds of 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 many damages or casualties.

Advice

In the event of a missile attack, individuals in Saudi Arabia are advised to seek shelter, monitor developments to the situation, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.