Saudi Arabia intercepted a drone launched by the Houthis toward the holy city of Mecca, according to official statements. The drone was brought down south of Mecca, the kingdom said, as it vowed to take action against the group's "hostile and terrorist behavior." The Houthis denied the attack, calling the claim a "nauseating lie."

The incident comes amid ongoing tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran-backed groups in the region. The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, have been accused of launching attacks on Saudi infrastructure. In a separate development, the Israeli army reported that a Hamas squad commander was killed in a strike on Khan Younis.

The Saudi government has issued travel warnings ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, citing security concerns. The intercepted drone highlights the growing threat from regional actors targeting religious sites. The situation remains under close monitoring as both sides continue to exchange accusations.