RIYADH — The Arab Coalition intercepted and destroyed four explosive-laden drones launched by the Iran-backed Houthi militia towards Saudi Arabia, the coalition’s spokesperson Col. Turki Al-Maliki said on Friday.

“Joint Coalition Forces intercepted and destroyed this morning (4) bomb-laden UAVs launched by the terrorist, Iran-backed Houthi militia toward the Kingdom, (3) of which were dealt with in Yemeni airspace,” Col. Al-Maliki said.

Col. Al Maliki also stated, the coalition’s forces have proved highly efficient when “confronting and thwarting” Houthis’ threats, as displayed by the interception and destruction of the explosive-laden UAVs on Friday.

“The Joint Forces Command will undertake and implement all necessary measures to protect civilians and civilian objects in accordance with the customary International Humanitarian Law,” Col. Al Maliki added.

Friday’s attack is the latest attempted assault by the Houthis, against whom the Coalition confirmed on Thursday that they have begun a military operation in Yemen.

Al Maliki aslo said there have been 4,276 Houthi violations in the past 45 days, during which the Coalition had abided by the ceasefire. The spokesman also accused Iran of using an organized crime network to smuggle 16 shipments of arms to the insurgents.

In a clear warning to Houthis, Col. Al-Maliki told a press conference in Riyadh on Thursday that "targeting civilian facilities is a red line. We won’t allow this to happen.” —SPA/SG