Saudi Arabia intercepts two ballistic missiles targeting Makkah region

Saudi Arabia has claimed that its air defence systems intercepted and destroyed two ballistic missiles heading towards the Makkah region, with debris falling at two locations near Islam’s holiest city.

According to a report by Reuters, Saudi Civil Defence said the missiles were intercepted before reaching their intended targets. However, fragments from the destroyed projectiles landed in areas surrounding Makkah, raising security concerns.

Saudi state television identified the two locations as Sabouha village, approximately 35 kilometres northeast of the Grand Mosque, and Wadi Al-Mughamis, around 21 kilometres east of Masjid al-Haram.

In a statement issued early Thursday, Saudi Civil Defence said the missiles had been launched towards the Makkah region but were successfully neutralised by the kingdom’s air defence systems.

The Saudi authorities blamed Yemen’s Houthi militia for the attempted missile attacks, describing the targeting of civilian areas as a serious violation of international humanitarian law.

The statement further accused the group of demonstrating a dangerous pattern of aggression by threatening populated areas and putting civilian lives at risk.

The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions and growing security concerns across the Middle East, where missile and drone attacks have increased the pressure on countries seeking to protect critical infrastructure and civilian populations.

Makkah holds exceptional religious significance for Muslims worldwide, with millions of worshippers visiting the city every year to perform Hajj and Umrah. Any security threat involving the area is therefore likely to attract widespread international attention.

Saudi authorities have not provided further details about the missiles’ origins or the extent of damage caused by falling debris.

Meanwhile, the Houthis had not issued an immediate response to Saudi Arabia’s allegations, and no independent confirmation of responsibility for the incident was available at the time of reporting.

The latest development highlights the continuing security challenges facing Saudi Arabia amid regional instability and renewed concerns over threats to civilian areas and strategically important locations.