Saudi Arabia warns of potential Houthi attacks on Mecca, sets 'red line'

Saudi Arabia issued brief security alerts on Tuesday warning of potential attacks by Houthi militants against Mecca and several areas across the kingdom's southern regions, which share a border with Yemen.

The alerts came as Riyadh sought to reinforce its security posture against threats from the Iranian-backed militant group, which has previously launched drone and missile attacks against targets within Saudi territory.

The warning underscores the continued volatility along the Saudi-Yemen border, where Houthi forces have periodically conducted cross-border operations. Mecca, home to Islam's holiest site, remains a sensitive security concern for the Saudi government.

By issuing the alerts, Saudi Arabia signalled its determination to protect critical areas and appeared to be drawing a firm boundary regarding what it would tolerate from the group. The exact nature of the alleged threats and specific targets within the southern regions were not detailed in the kingdom's announcement.

The incident reflects the broader regional tensions stemming from the protracted conflict in neighbouring Yemen, where Houthi militants have maintained a significant military presence despite years of Saudi-led military operations.