Saudi Arabia issues Mecca alert after Houthi drone intercepted

Saudi-led airstrikes in Yemen’s Taiz province reportedly killed civilians, damaged the Al-Barah Bridge in Maqbanah and disrupted traffic, while Houthi-linked sources gave differing casualty figures and reported strikes on nearby Dhubab and the Red Sea port city of Mocha. Separately, Houthi missile and drone attacks reportedly injured 13 civilians in Khamis Mushait, Abha and Taif, with the Houthis describing the attacks as retaliation for intensified coalition strikes. The United States advised Americans to reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia because of risks including Iranian and Houthi attacks, terrorism, armed conflict, flight disruptions and local restrictions. Saudi authorities issued, then lifted, emergency warnings for Mecca, Jeddah, Taif, Jazan, Abha and Khamis Mushait, including instructions for residents in Mecca to shelter indoors and avoid windows, balconies and open areas. Saudi officials blamed Iran-backed Houthi forces for attacks that reportedly injured people and damaged buildings, vehicles and a mosque, while authorities urged residents to follow Civil Defense guidance and monitor official channels.