Saudi Arabia's civil defence agency issued a warning of potential danger in the country's south on Tuesday, the first alert since the Houthis launched an attack on Riyadh over the weekend. The alert was issued by the National Early Warning Platform in the Najran Province, which borders Yemen. Residents were advised to remain indoors and avoid open areas. The warning was lifted a short while later.
The alert comes amid escalating fighting in Yemen between the Iran-backed Houthis and government forces supported by Saudi Arabia. Military sources from both sides reported that 154 people have been killed in the past two days. Houthi military sources said 118 people were killed in Saudi airstrikes, clashes, and artillery fire in several governorates. Government sources reported 36 killed in their ranks.
The foreign ministers of the G7 condemned on Monday the "unacceptable continued strikes" waged from Yemen against Saudi Arabia. They urged the Iran-backed Houthis to immediately cease all military actions, threats, and attacks against civilian shipping. The G7 leaders also called on Iran to end its arming of and support for the Houthis, alleging Tehran is in violation of past UN Security Council resolutions.
The conflict in Yemen has been ongoing for several years, with the Houthis controlling large parts of the country. The group has been backed by Iran, while Saudi Arabia has supported the government. The conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian suffering, with millions displaced and thousands killed.
The Saudi civil defence agency's warning is a rare occurrence, highlighting the escalating tensions in the region. The agency's alert was issued in response to potential dangers in the Najran Province, which borders Yemen. The province has been a key location for military operations against the Houthis.
The conflict in Yemen has also had regional implications, with several countries expressing concern over the escalating violence. The United Nations has been involved in efforts to broker a peace agreement, but so far, a lasting ceasefire has not been achieved. The situation remains volatile, with both sides suffering significant losses.
The G7's condemnation of the Houthi attacks highlights the international community's concern over the conflict. The group's call for a ceasefire and the end of Iranian support for the Houthis underscores the need for a diplomatic solution to the conflict. The situation in Yemen remains a key challenge for regional and international leaders.
Key points
- Saudi Arabia's civil defence agency issues warning for Najran Province due to potential danger from Yemen conflict.
- 154 people killed in past two days of fighting in Yemen, including 118 in Saudi airstrikes and 36 in government ranks.
- G7 leaders condemn Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, call for ceasefire and end to Iranian support.
