Saudi Arabia: Missile intercepted over Jizan (south) January 16

Event

A missile launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen was intercepted over the Saudi city of Jizan, located near the Yemeni border, by the Saudi air defense system on the night of Tuesday, January 16. Houthi rebels stated that an airport in the region of Jizan was the intended target of the ballistic missile. This is the third Houthi missile to be intercepted by the Saudis in 2018; none have resulted in casualties.

In response, the Arab Coalition’s air force bombed several Houthi missile launch bases along the Saudi border on Tuesday night.

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. Furthermore, 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.