Saudi Arabia lifts security alert in Khamis Mushait

Saudi Arabia lifts security alert in Khamis Mushait

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defense issued a security alert for areas in and around Khamis Mushait before withdrawing the warning, according to international media reports.

The alert marked the fourth warning issued by Saudi Civil Defense within a 24-hour period, highlighting continued security concerns in the kingdom’s southwestern region. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and follow official instructions during periods of heightened security activity.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, the Civil Defense advised members of the public to avoid gathering in the affected areas and refrain from recording or sharing videos of the situation. Officials stressed the importance of keeping away from locations linked to the alert and allowing emergency and security personnel to carry out their duties without interference.

The warning comes amid heightened tensions along Saudi Arabia’s southwestern border following recent attacks linked to Yemen-based Houthi forces. Khamis Mushait, Abha and surrounding areas have faced security alerts in the past because of their proximity to Yemen and their strategic importance.

Saudi authorities have previously issued similar warnings for southwestern parts of the country before subsequently lifting them once the immediate threat had passed. The latest alert was also withdrawn after authorities assessed the situation.

The development follows attacks launched a day earlier by Ansar Allah, the Houthi movement based in Yemen, targeting Saudi cities. According to reports, the attacks left 73 people injured, raising fresh concerns about the potential for further escalation in the region.

Saudi authorities have continued to monitor developments closely and have repeatedly urged residents to rely on official announcements rather than unverified information circulating on social media.

The latest security alert and its subsequent withdrawal underline the heightened vigilance in Saudi Arabia’s southwestern areas as regional tensions continue to evolve.