Saudi Arabia: Saudi air defenses intercept Houthi drone August 20

Event

On Thursday, August 20, Saudi air defenses reportedly intercepted and destroyed at least one drone laden with explosives targeting southern Saudi Arabia. It was not immediately clear what location the drone was targeting or whether the drone was intercepted in Saudi or Yemeni airspace.

Further cross-border attacks are possible over the near term.

Context

Houthi rebels have claimed several missile attacks targeting Saudi facilities and infrastructure since late May 2019. Yemen is engaged in a complex and deadly conflict, ongoing since Houthi rebels entered a civil war with the Yemeni government, supported by a Saudi-led coalition, in 2015.

Advice

Individuals in Saudi Arabia are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.