RIYADH — Saudi Arabia says its forces intercepted and destroyed an unmanned aircraft that attempted to enter the airspace of the holy city of Mecca early on Wednesday.
The Saudi authorities did not immediately provide further details about the drone, including where it originated or who was responsible for the reported attempt.
Major General Turki al-Malki, spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition, said Mecca and Medina — the two holiest cities in Islam — remain a “red line” and warned that attempts to target them would not be tolerated.
“Mecca and Medina are a red line,” al-Malki said, according to Saudi authorities, stressing the religious and symbolic importance of the two cities.
The reported incident has raised fresh security concerns around Mecca, particularly amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing attacks involving drones and missiles across the Middle East.
Saudi Arabia said Wednesday’s incident was the second reported attempt to target Mecca since 2017.
The kingdom has previously accused the Houthi movement in Yemen of launching missiles and drones towards Saudi territory, including attempts that Riyadh said threatened the holy city. The Houthis have denied or disputed some Saudi allegations.
No casualties or damage were immediately reported in connection with Wednesday’s incident.
The development comes at a time of heightened regional instability, with several countries in the Middle East facing increased threats involving drones, missiles and attacks on strategic infrastructure.
Saudi authorities said security forces remain on heightened alert around the holy cities, while investigations into the latest incident continue.
