Saudi coalition forces announced Tuesday the interception and destruction of an unmanned aircraft launched by Houthi forces before it entered the restricted airspace of Mecca, the holy capital.
According to Brigadier General Turki Al-Maliki, official spokesman for the coalition supporting legitimacy in Yemen, Saudi Royal Air Defense Forces intercepted and destroyed the drone at 18:50. The interception occurred south of Mecca.
Al-Maliki stated this represented the second attempted attack on Mecca. The first occurred in 2017, when a ballistic missile was launched at the city.
The coalition spokesman characterized the attempt as a "despicable act" targeting what he described as the site of divine revelation and the destination of millions of Muslims worldwide. He said the action represented an attempt to intimidate pilgrims at the Grand Mosque and harm residents and citizens.
Al-Maliki added that the attempt would remain a "black mark" in the record of Houthi violations, describing it as a deliberate act intended to provoke the feelings of millions of Muslims.
The spokesman emphasized that the security of the two holy sanctuaries and pilgrims constitutes a "red line." He stated that the coalition's joint forces command would not hesitate to take necessary and deterrent measures against the Houthis and their hostile conduct.