Saudi Arabia intercepts missile attack from Yemen as tensions escalate

On September 24, 2026, Saudi Arabia reported that its air defense systems intercepted six ballistic missiles launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen. The projectiles were targeted at the Taif province and the Red Sea port of Yanbu. While Saudi authorities confirmed the interceptions and temporarily issued security alerts across several regions, including Mecca, Jeddah, and Tabuk, they did not report any casualties or infrastructure damage. In contrast, the Houthi movement claimed responsibility for the operation, asserting that they had also targeted a sensitive site in Riyadh and Aramco facilities in Yanbu using both missiles and drones. Saudi officials have not confirmed an attack on the capital.

In response to the escalation, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will deploy military assets, including personnel, radar, and defense systems, to protect strategic energy infrastructure in Yanbu, emphasizing that these measures are defensive rather than offensive. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has convened an urgent high-level meeting with Turkey and Pakistan to discuss security cooperation under an existing trilateral defense agreement. Saudi military spokesman Colonel Turki al-Maliki warned that the Houthi actions would receive a firm response, as regional hostilities continue to intensify following the resumption of internal fighting in Yemen this past July.