Saudi-led coalition reports interception of six ballistic missiles allegedly launched by Yemen's Houthis

Interception claim by Saudi-led coalition

The spokesperson for the Saudi-backed Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen, Major General Turki al-Malki, told the Saudi Press Agency that air defences intercepted six ballistic missiles that were heading toward the Saudi cities of Taif and the port of Yanbu. The statement did not include independent verification of the missiles’ origin.

Greek-operated air defence involvement

According to Reuters, a Patriot air defence system operated by Greek military personnel in Saudi Arabia engaged a ballistic missile and a drone in the wider Yanbu region, which hosts major oil-refining facilities. A Greek security source said the system launched two missiles to shoot down the threats, though details on the missile’s origin were not provided.

Alerts and broader context

Earlier on the same day, Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Civil Defence issued alerts for Mecca, Tabuk, Jeddah, Yanbu and Taif, later declaring the threat had passed. The coalition’s claim follows a recent incident in which Saudi forces said they intercepted a drone aimed at Mecca, a claim the Houthis denied. The Houthis have increased attacks on Saudi territory after announcing a naval blockade in July, but they have not responded to the latest missile interception claim. Further independent confirmation of the events remains pending.