Saudi Arabia: Ballistic missiles targeting cities intercepted February 21

Event

On Friday, February 21, Saudi officials have announced that its Royal Air Defense Forces have intercepted multiple ballistic missiles that were targeting cities within the country. The government has attributed the missiles to Houthi rebels in Yemen, and called the effort a "flagrant violation of international humanitarian law," as the intended targets were civilians.

Related attacks and attempted attacks remain possible over the near term.

Context

Yemen is engaged in a complex and deadly conflict, ongoing since Houthi rebels entered into a civil war with the Yemeni government, supported by a Saudi-led coalition, in 2015. The Saudi-led coalition has carried out thousands of airstrikes in Yemen since its intervention began. Hundreds of Yemeni civilians have been killed in the strikes, which have hit schools, hospitals, and markets, in addition to Houthi militant positions and personnel. In total, more than 10,000 Yemenis have died in the fighting and some 3 million have been displaced.

Advice

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