Al-Jawf — Yemeni army air defense units successfully intercepted and shot down a Houthi-operated drone in the desert region of Al-Jawf Governorate, in a continuing effort to counter aerial threats posed by the Iran-backed militia.

According to military sources in the Sixth Military Region, the drone was detected flying over strategic desert routes east of Al-Jawf late Saturday. The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was reportedly conducting reconnaissance operations when it was targeted and destroyed by ground-based air defense systems.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions along the eastern frontlines of Al-Jawf, where Houthi forces have attempted repeated infiltrations in recent weeks. Army officials confirmed that the drone was part of a broader surveillance effort aimed at mapping military positions and facilitating militant advances.

“This operation reflects the readiness of our forces to confront all forms of aggression,” said a spokesperson for the Yemeni Armed Forces. “We will not allow hostile drones to compromise the security of our troops or civilians.”

The Yemeni government has called on the international community to condemn the use of drones by the Houthis, which it describes as a violation of ceasefire agreements and a threat to regional stability.

No casualties were reported in the operation, and the army confirmed that debris from the drone was recovered for technical analysis.