Security

Saudi Arabia Accuses Houthis of Targeting Mecca, Declares Holy City a Red Line

AI SUMMARY

Saudi Arabia accused Houthi rebels of attempting to attack Mecca, prompting regional condemnation and heightened conflict fears as oil prices soar.

Saudi Arabia accused the Iran-backed Houthi rebels of attempting to attack Mecca.
The Houthi rebels swiftly denied targeting Mecca, stating their operations focused on Saudi oil facilities and military bases.
Saudi military spokesman Maj. Gen. Turki al-Malki reported that air defense forces intercepted a drone south of Mecca on Tuesday.
The United States upgraded its travel advisory for Saudi Arabia to Level 3 amid the escalating conflict.
Brent crude oil prices rose to around $108 per barrel, and diesel fuel hit a nationwide average record high of $6.31.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the alleged attack as a dastardly and heinous act.
The United Nations Security Council held an emergency session Tuesday to address the rising violence in Yemen.
Clashes between Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces and Houthi rebels have displaced at least 125,000 people since the start of September.