Saudi Arabia’s Ballistic Missile Project

Experts believe Saudi Arabia is testing and possibly manufacturing ballistic missiles at a military base deep within the country’s borders (Times of Israel, January 26, 2019). “The November satellite images show what appear to be structures big enough to build and fuel ballistic missiles. An apparent rocket-engine test stand can be seen in a corner of the base—the type on which a rocket is positioned on its side and test-fired in place. Such testing is key for countries attempting to manufacture working missiles, experts say.” Multiple experts who reviewed the satellite images seem to concur.

Saudi Arabia has felt pressure from Iran, and Riyadh has been targeted by ballistic missiles fired by Houthi rebels in Yemen. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has said plainly, “Saudi Arabia does not want to acquire any nuclear bomb, but without a doubt if Iran developed a nuclear bomb, we will follow suit as soon as possible.”

The Middle East is increasingly unstable, and many of its nations continue to militarize at increasing rates (Haaretz, November 29, 2018; CSIS, March 13, 2018; Daily Caller, August 21, 2018). Many of these nations are arming against each other. However, Bible prophecy also indicates that a number of these Middle Eastern nations will likely work together at the end of the age as the “king of the south.” This Arab-Muslim force will ultimately challenge a European “king of the north” (Daniel 11:39–43). For decades this Work has advised readers, based upon Bible prophecies, to watch the Middle East—and we continue to do so. For more insights about this critical part of the world, read or listen to The Middle East in Prophecy.