Coalition reports interception of Houthi drone targeting Mecca as Saudi Arabia faces Houthi denial
Coalition reports intercepted weapons
The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen said a drone launched by the Houthis towards the Mecca region was intercepted and destroyed on Friday morning. Spokesman Turki al-Malki announced the interception in a social media post.
Al-Malki also said coalition air defences brought down a Houthi cruise missile targeting western Saudi Arabia. The report followed earlier claims of additional missile interceptions.
Houthis reject Mecca accusation
A Houthi spokesperson denied that the group had targeted Mecca or the surrounding region. The spokesperson said Houthi cross-border attacks remain focused on Saudi energy and military infrastructure.
Missile reports and civilian concerns
On Thursday, the coalition said it destroyed a ballistic missile fired towards Saudi Arabia’s eastern region. It later reported intercepting and destroying two ballistic missiles launched towards Riyadh.
The rival forces’ hostilities continue to escalate, with attacks showing no sign of slowing. Humanitarian agencies have warned that conditions for civilians are worsening.
Key points
- The Saudi-led coalition said it destroyed a drone aimed at the Mecca region on Friday.
- A Houthi spokesperson denied targeting Mecca and said attacks focus on Saudi energy and military infrastructure.
- The coalition also reported intercepting missiles aimed at western Saudi Arabia, the eastern region and Riyadh.
- Humanitarian agencies warn that civilian conditions are worsening as hostilities continue.