Saudi Arabia: Saudi-led coalition claim interception of two Houthi UAVs November 12

Event

Saudi-led coalition forces reportedly intercepted and destroyed two explosive-laden unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) targeting Saudi Arabia early on Thursday, November 12. The UAVs are believed to have been launched by Yemeni Houthi rebels. The exact target in the Kingdom is unclear; however, Saudi officials claim that it was targeting civilian areas in the southern region. Southwestern border provinces of Jizan, Asir, and Najran have frequently been targeted in such attacks. Unconfirmed reports on social media outlets suggest that Houthi rebels targeted Saudi military positions in several locations over several hours. There have been no immediate reports of casualties. The Houthi movement has not commented on the reports.

The most recent drone attack comes after coalition naval forces reportedly destroyed two explosive-laden drones south of the Red Sea on Wednesday, November 11, launched by Houthi rebels in Hodeidah province (Yemen) in alleged efforts to threaten maritime routes, international trade, and security.

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

Context

Yemen-based Houthi rebels have launched hundreds of rockets, missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into Saudi Arabia since 2015, when Saudi-led coalition forces intervened in the country's civil war in support of the Yemeni government. Towns and cities in the southwestern border provinces of Jizan, Asir, and Najran have frequently been targeted in such attacks, but longer-range ballistic missiles have also been launched towards Riyadh, Jeddah, and other major cities in the country. Many of these missiles, rockets, and UAVs have been intercepted by Saudi air defenses, but hundreds of civilians have been killed and injured in such attacks since the beginning of the conflict.

Advice

Those in Saudi Arabia are advised to monitor developments and heed any directives issued by local authorities. Travelers should familiarise themselves with missile attack procedures in their particular area of operations and the location of the nearest air raid shelters. In the event of a missile attack, those in the affected area are advised to seek shelter, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities