Saudi Arabia’s air defence forces intercepted and destroyed a drone launched by Yemen’s Houthi movement in the Makkah region on Friday, October 30, 2026.
The Saudi-led military coalition confirmed the interception as tensions intensified following repeated missile and drone attacks across the kingdom.
The incident came just one day after air defence systems intercepted two ballistic missiles targeting Riyadh.
Saudi Coalition Intercepts Houthi Drone in Makkah Region
The coalition announced the successful interception through a statement published on social media platform X.
However, officials did not immediately report casualties or property damage from the latest incident.
The interception followed explosions heard across Riyadh on Thursday.
Coalition spokesperson Turki al-Malki confirmed that Saudi forces destroyed two incoming ballistic missiles.
Authorities also issued emergency warnings in Riyadh, Kharj, and Najran before lifting the alerts.
Yemen Airstrikes Leave Civilians Dead
Meanwhile, Houthi authorities accused Saudi Arabia of conducting deadly airstrikes on residential areas in western Yemen.
According to the Houthi health ministry, 12 civilians were killed and three critically injured in attacks targeting homes in the Maqbana district.
The claims have not been independently verified.
Saudi-Houthi Conflict Deepens Humanitarian Crisis
The renewed fighting follows the collapse of a fragile ceasefire earlier this year.
Houthi forces have intensified attacks on Saudi infrastructure, including airports, shipping routes, and oil facilities.
Recent attacks also disrupted operations at Riyadh’s international airport.
According to United Nations figures, more than 1,600 people have died since hostilities resumed.
Over 275,000 people have also been displaced.
The latest escalation raises concerns about civilian safety, regional stability, and further humanitarian suffering.
