Yemen: Al-Houthi weaponized drone targeting Aden intercepted early March 18

Event

The Saudi-led coalition reported early March 18 that they intercepted and destroyed a suspected Al-Houthi-launched weaponized drone targeting Aden. There were no immediate reports of casualties.

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

Context

The utilization of drones and missiles represents a relatively cheap outlay for Al-Houthi rebels to cause maximum disruption to Yemeni government and Saudi-backed forces in Yemen. The policy of maximum disruption can be seen through the number of locations that the Al-Houthi group has attacked, including against civilian targets in Saudi Arabia and Saudi-backed troops in Yemen.

The lack of objective sources covering the conflict between the Saudi-led coalition and Al-Houthi rebels makes it extremely difficult to independently verify reports of weaponized drone and ballistic missile attacks in Yemen. Each side relies heavily on propaganda and misdirection in the media to shape the narrative to their own policy objectives.

Advice

If authorities report incoming indirect fire or drone activity in the general vicinity, stay indoors, away from windows and exterior walls, and, if possible, move to a ground floor or basement. Avoid government sites and buildings as a precaution. Allow for extra time to travel; cooperate with officers if stopped at a security checkpoint. Plan for heightened security measures and associated disruptions in Aden.