Saudi Arabia says it shot down a drone associated with Yemen’s Houthi movement south of Mecca, amid accusations that the group had targeted the Islamic holy city.
The Saudi-led coalition involved in Yemen condemned what it described as a “disgraceful act”. The allegation has not been accepted by the Houthis, who deny that they targeted Mecca.
The reported incident places the dispute between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis close to one of Islam’s most significant religious sites. The available information does not specify when the drone was intercepted, how it was brought down or whether there were any casualties or damage.
The latest position remains contested, with Saudi Arabia saying the drone was shot down south of Mecca and the Houthis rejecting the accusation that the city was the intended target. No further details about possible next steps have been provided.
