Saudi Arabia has confirmed it shot down a drone launched from Yemen toward the holy city of Mecca, accusing the Iran-backed Houthi rebels of the attack. The incident occurred south of Mecca, according to officials, and marks another escalation in the ongoing conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis. The kingdom has described the attack as a "disgraceful act" and warned of severe consequences.
The Houthi rebels have denied responsibility, calling the accusation a "nauseating lie." They claim the drone was not directed at Mecca and that the attack was a false flag operation. The incident has drawn condemnation from regional allies, though no military support has been announced. The attack comes amid renewed tensions following the collapse of a UN-brokered truce in April 2022, which had previously reduced cross-border violence.
The drone strike has raised concerns about the security of religious sites and the broader stability of the region. Saudi Arabia has reiterated its stance that the attack crosses a "red line," signaling a potential shift in its approach to the conflict. The incident also highlights the ongoing impact of the Iran-Saudi rivalry on regional security and international energy markets.
