Saudi Arabia: Air defense forces intercept weaponized drone targeting Abha International Airport Feb. 10

Event

The Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces (RSADF) reportedly intercepted and destroyed a suspected Al-Houthi-launched weaponized drone targeting Abha International Airport in Asir Province, early Feb. 10. Falling debris has resulted in at least 12 injuries.

Localized disruptions to transport and business operations are possible near weapon fragment impact sites. Additional cross-border attacks are almost certain in the coming days.

Context

Saudi Arabia has been under repeat cross-border attacks since the beginning of the Yemeni conflict in 2015 and will almost certainly be subject to additional attacks for the duration of the conflict. Given the Al-Houthis' entrenched positions in northern Yemen and Saudi military forces' apparent inability to defeat them militarily, cross-border launches into the kingdom's territory will probably continue indefinitely.

Attacks will almost certainly continue to primarily target Asir, Jazan, and Najran provinces along the Saudi-Yemeni border. Though longer-range attacks against military bases, civilian areas, and critical infrastructure located deeper within Saudi territory - including targets near Yanbu and Riyadh - will continue to be periodically reported. The rebels use a combination of weaponized drones, with ranges from 15 km (9 miles) to 500 km (310 miles), as well as short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) with ranges from 30 km (18 miles) to 1,000 km (620 miles).

The Saudi military claim to intercept most, if not all, attacks, though falling post-intercept debris remains a potentially lethal hazard. Previous Al-Houthi cross-border attacks have resulted in civilian casualties; however, most are due to shorter-range mortar and rocket attacks that concentrate near areas within 10 km (6 miles) of the Saudi-Yemeni border.

Advice

If officials report incoming projectile fire or drone activity in the general vicinity, stay indoors away from windows and exterior walls; if possible, move to a ground floor or basement. Confirm that a thorough communication plan exists to ensure rapid accountability for all personnel operating in Saudi Arabia's border provinces. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.