Since the Houthi rebels announced a blockade of Saudi shipping in July, Saudi Arabia has faced escalating missile and drone attacks as the conflict in Yemen intensifies. In early September, the Saudi Civil Defense began issuing danger alerts covering at least 11 cities and provinces: Riyadh, Khairji, Mecca, Jeddah, Taif, Khamis Mushait, Abha, Jizan, Al-Ulah, Yanbu, and Shahrouz. At least eight locations have received repeated warnings, with no fewer than 24 alerts issued for specific locations since September 9. Abha and Khamis Mushait have each received at least four alerts, and Taif has received at least three. Jeddah, Al-Ulah, Yanbu, Riyadh, and Khairji have each received at least two alerts.
Houthi military spokesman Yahya Sarreya stated that the group will continue its attacks in response to Saudi airstrikes in Yemen. The Houthis deny targeting civilians and reject Saudi claims that the group attacked the holy city of Mecca. Houthi attacks have targeted cities, military bases, and energy infrastructure across Saudi Arabia. The first major attack this month injured 73 civilians, followed by attacks in Khamis Mushait, Abha, and Taif, which injured another 13. Debris from an intercepted drone also killed a Yemeni resident in Taif. Major General Turki al-Maliki, spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition, pledged a “responsible and firm” response to the Houthi missile and drone attacks, stating that the coalition would take action to protect Saudi sovereignty.
