HARIANEXPRESS – Yemen’s Houthi group has strongly rejected allegations that it launched a drone attack targeting Mecca, Saudi Arabia. This denial followed an announcement from Saudi authorities stating that their air defenses successfully intercepted and destroyed a drone south of the holy city.
According to Saudi-led coalition spokesperson Maj. Gen. Turki al-Maliki, the interception took place on Tuesday evening, September 15, 2026. The drone was stopped before it could enter the restricted airspace over Mecca, with the wreckage landing south of the city.
Rejections and Previous Incidents
The Houthis completely rejected responsibility for the event and stated they pose no threat to Mecca or any other Islamic holy sites. A military source from the group told the Saba news agency that the accusations from Saudi Arabia are pure misinformation.
Maj. Gen. Turki al-Maliki stated that this occurrence marked the second time the Houthis attempted to target Mecca, referencing a previous ballistic missile launch in July 2017. He emphasized the official stance regarding the security of the region.
The security of the Two Holy Mosques and pilgrims remains a “red line” for Saudi Arabia
The coalition spokesperson warned that measures will be taken to deter any further attacks. Furthermore, the incident sparked a security alert in Mecca for the first time in nearly a decade amidst escalating regional tensions.
- Air defense intercepted a drone south of Mecca on Tuesday evening, September 15, 2026.
- The Houthis denied the attack through a military source speaking to the Saba news agency.
- The escalation heightens regional security concerns near the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
