Jizan, Asharq Al-Awsat – Official sources informed Asharq Al-Awsat that the Saudi military is utilizing professional snipers from several military units to help repel the infiltrators from Saudi soil. Snipers have been deployed to well-fortified locations along the border region in the Al Harith region.

These sniper positions – according to sources – are able to monitor the infiltrators who move in groups across mountainous terrain to [enter Saudi territory] and attack the Saudi military units deployed in the region. The Saudi forces adhere to a clear and specific order not to enter or undertake any military activity on Yemeni soil.

Sources confirmed to Asharq Al-Awsat that these snipers have been successfully carrying out their orders.

Asharq Al-Awsat also interviewed a number of soldiers deployed on the frontlines. One of the soldiers, who waved the Saudi flag in one hand and made the victory sign with the other, stressed that things are going according to the plans of the senior [military] leadership, and that the morale of the soldiers is very high.

The soldier stressed to Asharq Al-Awsat that they [the military] are performing a religious and national duty to protect their country against infiltrators. He also confirmed that the Saudi military is in full control of the border.

Another soldier told Asharq Al-Awsat “Nobody can step onto our territory.” Pointing in the direction of the Yemeni border, the soldier added, “We will not overstep our borders which we are centred upon, and we do not accept anybody encroaching upon our borders…and this is our duty to preserve our country.”

Military sources also informed Asharq Al-Awsat that the armed forces killed and arrested a number of armed militants attempting to infiltrate Saudi territory this week. The source confirmed that the infiltrators are no longer attacking the Saudi forces deployed along the border, as a result of the deterrence tactics undertaken by the military.

The source also confirmed that Saudi soldiers continue to patrol the Saudi border, and the Royal Air Force is continuing its operations targeting the hideouts of infiltrators. He also revealed that Saudi forces are continuing to arrest Yemenis and Ethiopians infiltrating the border region from other areas away from the scenes of fighting.