Saudi-Houthi Conflict: Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group launched fresh attacks on Friday, targeting areas in Saudi Arabia and southern Yemen. Saudi officials said their forces intercepted a drone over the Medina region, while Yemeni officials reported ballistic missile attacks on Aden airport and the Maashiq presidential palace complex. The latest incidents have increased tensions between the Houthis and the Saudi-led coalition once again.

Drone Intercepted Near Medina, Mecca

According to Reuters, the Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted and destroyed a drone launched by the Houthis over Medina, which is home to the Prophet's Mosque, one of Islam's holiest sites. Earlier, the coalition had also reported stopping another drone in the Mecca region. Mecca houses the Grand Mosque and the Kaaba and attracts millions of Muslim pilgrims every year. The reported interceptions have raised concerns over cities of religious importance.

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Missile Attacks Target Aden

Meanwhile, the Houthis reportedly also fired ballistic missiles at Aden airport and the Maashiq presidential palace complex on Friday. A Yemeni government military spokesperson confirmed the attacks but did not share details about casualties or damage. A police official told AFP that two missiles targeted the palace complex. Residents and witnesses reported hearing two explosions, while eyewitnesses said ambulances entered the palace compound.

Aden is an important southern port city and serves as the base of Yemen's internationally recognised government. The city has faced repeated attacks since fighting increased again in July. The latest incident followed another Houthi attack on Aden airport on Wednesday, after the group issued an evacuation warning. The airport is a key entry point for humanitarian operations.

Houthis Deny Targeting Holy Cities

Saudi Arabia has previously accused the Houthis of targeting areas near Mecca and Medina. In September, the coalition reported intercepting a drone south of Mecca. In October, it accused the group of attacking a power station supplying electricity to the Prophet's Mosque in Medina. However, the Houthis had denied these allegations. On Friday, spokesperson Yahya Saree again rejected claims of an attack on Saudi territory, saying their operations were directed at Saudi oil facilities and military bases.

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