Saudi Arabia: The security of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been tightened amid increasing attacks by Houthi rebels in Saudi Arabia and security concerns. According to reports, the 41-year-old Crown Prince has not been seen in public for the last week. During this time, they have been kept in tightly guarded bunkered palaces, and their location is constantly being changed.
According to the Wall Street Journal report, this step has been taken in view of the increasing conflict and potential security threats between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthi rebels. A specially selected team has also been deployed to ensure the security of the Crown Prince.
Is concern increased due to attacks by Houthi rebels?
In recent days, there have been reports of intensification of attacks by Houthi rebels in Saudi Arabia. According to reports, 13 people were killed and more than 300 injured in a deadly attack at King Khalid Airport. Houthi rebels have warned of further attacks. In such a situation, the Saudi administration is taking extra vigilance regarding security arrangements.
Were there strict warnings on sharing information about missiles and drones?
Saudi Arabia has issued a message in six languages warning people not to share video recordings and information on intercepting missiles and drones, the place of their fall or related incidents on social media. Legal action can be taken against those who do so and arrest is also possible.
The purpose of this warning is to prevent public dissemination of information related to sensitive military activities.
Were questions raised on alert system also?
Saudi Arabia started sending threat alerts to mobile phones and social media accounts through the National Early Warning System in May. However, despite the intensification of attacks by Houthi rebels last week, no new alerts were issued from this system.
According to information available on the social media account of the Civil Defense Authority, earlier on September 29, an alert was issued for the southern province of Najran.
Are alerts also being issued regarding bad weather?
The Saudi Civil Defence Authority is advising people to remain alert in conditions such as bad weather, heavy rain and flooding. A warning was issued in this regard on Monday also. Authorities have appealed to people to avoid sharing photos, unconfirmed news or sensitive information of areas affected by the attacks.
