Saudi Arabia: Missile intercepted in Aseer province (south) Feb. 5

Event

A missile launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen was intercepted over the Saudi province of Aseer, located near the Yemeni border, by the Saudi air defense system on the morning of Monday, February 5. The King Faisal military base in Khamis Mushait is believed to have been the intended target of the ballistic missile. This is the fourth Houthi missile to be intercepted by the Saudis thus far in 2018; none have resulted in casualties.

Context

Saudi Arabia is engaged in the Yemeni civil war, supporting the government against a rebellion by Houthi separatists ongoing since 2015. Southern Saudi Arabia is a frequent target of Houthi attacks. Since the beginning of the conflict in 2015, more than 80 missiles have been fired from Yemen towards Saudi Arabia and Houthi rebels often cross into Saudi territory to carry out attacks against Saudi soldiers.

Advice

Some foreign governments advise their nationals to avoid the Yemeni border area due to the risk of further attacks.