By WorldSpokesperson International Desk
Saudi Arabia says its air defenses intercepted and destroyed six ballistic missiles launched by Yemen’s Houthi group.
The Saudi-led coalition said the missiles were targeting the cities of Taif and Yanbu.
Coalition spokesman Maj. Gen. Turki Al-Maliki said the air defenses stopped the missiles before they could hit the two cities. He also warned that further Houthi escalation would face a firm response.
No Casualties Reported
The coalition said the missile interceptions prevented the attack from reaching Taif and Yanbu.
Saudi authorities reported no casualties or major damage from the intercepted missiles.
The Saudi statement did not provide further details about where the missile debris fell. The Associated Press said it could not independently verify the Saudi military claim.
Alerts Issued in Several Saudi Regions
Saudi Civil Defense had earlier issued brief warnings over a potential danger in several areas.
The alerts covered Makkah, Jeddah, Yanbu, Taif and Tabuk.
The National Early Warning Platform advised people in the affected areas to follow safety instructions. The alerts were later lifted after authorities said the danger had passed.
The alert for Makkah drew particular attention because the city is home to Islam’s holiest sites.
Houthi Attacks Raise Regional Security Concerns
The latest missile incident comes amid renewed fighting between the Houthis and Saudi-backed forces in Yemen.
The Houthis have also claimed attacks against Saudi military and other targets in recent days. On Thursday, the group said it launched dozens of ballistic missiles and drones toward military sites in Saudi Arabia’s Jazan region.
The renewed attacks have increased concerns about security in Saudi Arabia and around the Red Sea.
Saudi Arabia and other regional countries have also raised concerns over the wider conflict in the Middle East and its impact on regional security and navigation.
