Saudi Arabia Intercepts Drone Targeting Mecca in Major Escalation
Saudi Arabia claims to have intercepted a Houthi drone targeting Mecca, an incident the rebels deny but which has drawn sharp condemnation from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. Tensions are further heightened by unconfirmed explosions on Iran's Qeshm island and US media reports that Washington is on track to authorize a $2.8 billion arms sale to Israel featuring high-yield bombs.
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation has officially condemned the alleged Houthi incursion near Mecca as a heinous act, while Saudi coalition spokesperson Turki al-Malki warned that the safety of holy sites is a red line requiring firm deterrent action. Meanwhile, reports indicate several explosions were heard on Iran's Qeshm island near the Strait of Hormuz, and Washington is reportedly moving to approve a massive arms package for Israel that includes tens of thousands of heavy munitions.
Source: France 24Saudi authorities announced the interception of a Houthi drone near Mecca, marking the first security alert in the holy city since 2017 and signaling a significant rise in regional tensions.
Source: Al Jazeera English
