Saudi Air Defenses Intercept Houthi Drone Targeting Makkah

The Saudi-led Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen announced on Tuesday evening that Saudi Royal Air Defense forces successfully intercepted and destroyed a hostile drone launched by Houthi militias before it could reach the restricted airspace of the holy city of Makkah.

Coalition spokesperson Brigadier General Turki Al-Maliki stated that the interception occurred at 6:50 p.m. local time on September 15, 2026. The defense systems effectively neutralized the unmanned aerial vehicle south of the holy city, preventing any potential breach of protected airspace.

Brigadier General Al-Maliki condemned the incident as a blatant act of terrorism and a continuation of the Houthi militia’s recurring violations. This marks the second time the group has attempted to target Makkah, following a previous attempt involving a ballistic missile in July 2017. He described the targeting of the site as a disgraceful provocation that offends the global Islamic community.

The spokesperson emphasized that the security of the Two Holy Mosques and the safety of pilgrims remain non-negotiable priorities for the Kingdom. He affirmed that the Joint Forces Command of the Coalition will continue to implement firm and decisive measures to counter Houthi hostilities and ensure the protection of Saudi territory, its citizens, and its residents.