Saudi Arabia issued nationwide security alerts for Mecca and Jeddah on Tuesday after a week of Houthi attacks, covering a 300‑km radius around Mecca and 200‑km around Jeddah.
The Houthi movement, backed by Iran, launched coordinated strikes on an air base, the East‑West Pipeline and the western coast, severing a major oil transport route. The coalition reported 13 civilians wounded.
Saudi officials did not confirm any projectile impact, and no group claimed responsibility. The first alert in Mecca marks a new escalation in a city sacred to all Muslims.
In response, the United States deployed a joint task force to share intelligence and planning assistance, reaffirming its security alliance with Saudi Arabia.
The kingdom now plans to review its defense posture and coordinate with regional partners ahead of the upcoming Hajj season, when millions of pilgrims will pass through Mecca. A local family in Mecca says they are anxious for safety during the pilgrimage.