Missile debris fall in Mecca, says Saudi; Houthis deny targeting holy cities

Saudi Arabia says it intercepted two missiles headed towards Mecca and Medina, while the Houthis deny targeting the holy cities

Saudi Arabia's civil defense said on Saturday it intercepted two ballistic missiles launched by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis towards the Mecca and Medina regions, with debris falling at multiple locations, including Jeddah, Taif and Rabigh.The Houthis denied targeting the two regions, saying their operations were directed at Saudi oil facilities and military bases. The group added that it announces such attacks when they take place.The latest developments come as the Houthis continue to threaten Saudi Arabia's critical infrastructure. On Sunday, the rebel group's military spokesperson Yahya Saree reiterated that Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport remained a "military target" and warned airlines, airport staff and travellers against using the facility.The warning came hours after the airport announced that Terminal 1 would handle domestic flights and Terminal 2 international flights operated by national carriers from Sunday.Airport operations were suspended on October 10 following an attack claimed by the Houthis that killed 13 people and injured more than 300. The shutdown was extended two days later.The Houthis have repeatedly targeted Saudi airports, ports and oil facilities with missiles and drones as the conflict widens.Riyadh has also intensified its military involvement in Yemen, launching strikes against the group and supporting a government counteroffensive after the Houthis seized strategic territory along the Red Sea coast last month.