Algeria Now
Saudi coalition intercepts five drones after recent Houthi attacks
· Source: Algeria Now
Saudi Arabia's coalition said it intercepted five drones aimed at the kingdom on Wednesday, destroying four of them and forcing the fifth to land in Medina, the country's security spokesperson announced on X.
Turki al-Malki, the coalition's spokesperson, stated: "Four drones launched toward the Kingdom were intercepted and destroyed" and added that the remaining drone was downed over the holy city of Medina, home to the Prophet Muhammad's mosque and tomb.
The interceptions come amid a wave of Houthi attacks that resumed in July 2026 and intensified after the rebels seized Yemen's Red Sea coast in September, taking control of the strategic Bab el‑Mandeb strait.
Saudi authorities have stepped up air strikes on Houthi positions in recent weeks, while the Houthis have pledged to spare both Medina and Mecca despite the heightened fighting.
Riyadh International Airport remains closed following the 10 October drone assault that killed 13 people and injured hundreds, and there is no announced date for its reopening.