World · jpost.com
Saudi Air Defends Mecca from Houthi Drone Attack
Saudi Arabia said it destroyed a Houthi‑launched drone that was heading toward Mecca on September 15. The interception, recorded at 6:50 p.m. Saudi time, took place south of the holy city, a location visited by millions of pilgrims each year. The drone was part of a broader pattern of Iranian‑backed Houthi attacks that have targeted Saudi airspace, coastal islands, and critical infrastructure such as the East‑West pipeline. Earlier this month the Houthis seized islands guarding the Bab al‑Mandab Strait, signalling their intent to challenge Saudi dominance in the region. Saudi officials described the Mecca threat as a “red line” and warned that the act could upset Muslims worldwide. The incident follows a series of Houthi strikes that have injured more than 70 people and damaged civilian areas in Khamis Mushait, Abha and Taif. Riyadh’s coalition has called the drone attack a “black mark” on the militia’s record and highlighted the potential for further disruptions to oil shipments. The attack underscores the growing risk to Saudi security and the broader implications for regional stability.
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