Saudi Arabia’s air defenses successfully intercepted and destroyed a drone launched by the Houthis south of Mecca on September 15, according to the Saudi-led coalition. The incident occurred before the drone could breach the restricted airspace above the holy city, underscoring ongoing security concerns in the region.
Coalition spokesperson Turki al-Malki emphasized the importance of protecting the two holy mosques and pilgrims, describing their security as a “red line.” He warned that the coalition would take all necessary measures to prevent further attacks by Houthi forces. This drone incident is the second reported attempt by the Houthis to target Mecca, following a ballistic missile incident in 2017.
The Houthis, however, denied any attempt to target Mecca. Houthi spokesperson Hazem al-Assad rejected the Saudi claims, asserting that the group did not aim its drone at the holy city. The ongoing conflict between the Saudi-led coalition and Houthi forces continues to escalate tensions in the region.
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) condemned the reported drone attack and reiterated its support for safeguarding Mecca, Medina, and other Islamic holy sites. The OIC’s statement reflects the broader concern among Islamic nations regarding the protection of these sacred places.
This latest incident comes amid a rise in attacks involving Houthi forces and heightened security alerts across Saudi Arabia. The ongoing conflict with the Houthis, who are aligned with Iran, remains a significant source of regional instability, drawing international attention and condemnation.
