The alert, issued by Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defense authorities, warned residents of a potential threat and advised them to seek shelter indoors and follow official safety instructions. Similar warnings were also issued in several other cities, including Abha, Jazan, AlUla and Yanbu.
The development is significant because it is believed to be the first time in recent history that an aerial threat warning has been issued for Mecca, home to one of Islam’s holiest sites.
Alert Lifted After Three Hours
After about three hours, Saudi Civil Defense announced that the danger had passed and lifted the alert. However, residents were advised to continue following safety instructions, avoid public gatherings and refrain from filming the situation.
According to media reports, the alerts were triggered after Houthi forces launched a barrage of missiles towards Saudi Arabia’s western coast. Saudi air defenses and military forces reportedly responded by targeting Houthi positions in Yemen.
Attacks Follow Earlier Houthi Strikes
The emergency warnings came a day after the Houthis launched ballistic missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi territory, reportedly injuring 13 people in the kingdom’s southern region.
Saudi authorities did not immediately provide detailed information on the specific threat that prompted the alerts but maintained a high level of readiness throughout the day.
Regional Tensions Continue to Rise
The incident highlights growing tensions in the region as the conflict involving the Houthis continues to expand. In recent weeks, the group has claimed gains along Yemen’s western coastline and strategic islands in the Red Sea, including areas near the vital Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key global shipping route.
Security analysts say control over these locations could give the Houthis greater influence over maritime traffic passing between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Saudi Leadership in Egypt
The security alert also coincided with the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Egypt, where discussions with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi are expected to focus on regional developments and other issues of mutual interest.
While the immediate threat has passed, the brief warning in Mecca has underscored concerns about the widening reach of the conflict and the increasing security challenges facing the region.
