Saudi Arabia issued emergency alerts in Mecca, Jeddah and Taif on Tuesday, warning residents of a “potential danger” as tensions rise following a series of Houthi missile and drone attacks on the kingdom.
The alerts were issued through the National Early Warning Platform for Emergencies, according to Saudi Civil Defense. Authorities did not immediately disclose what caused the warning.
Residents were told to avoid crowded and open areas and move to a safe place, preferably inside a building or an interior room away from windows.
The Civil Defense later said the danger had passed but urged people to continue avoiding gatherings and not to film or photograph the situation.
Similar alerts were issued in Jeddah and Taif early Tuesday and were lifted shortly afterward.
13 Civilians Injured in Houthi Attacks
The emergency warnings came a day after Houthi forces launched missiles and drones towards several Saudi cities.
Saudi led coalition spokesperson Colonel Turki al Maliki said attacks targeted Khamis Mushait, Abha and Taif. At least 13 civilians were injured, while seven houses and two vehicles were reportedly damaged.
Maliki condemned what he called the Houthis’ “heinous and deliberate attacks” and said Saudi Arabia would respond “firmly to protect the sovereignty of the kingdom.”
He added that the coalition would take “all necessary operational measures to deter” what he described as an escalation.
The Houthis have claimed responsibility for several recent attacks against Saudi Arabia, saying they are responding to Saudi military operations in Yemen.
Mecca Alert Raises Concern
The warning in Mecca has drawn particular attention because it was the first such emergency alert reported in the holy city since the latest escalation began.
Authorities did not say whether the alert was directly linked to a specific incoming missile or drone. Residents were instead instructed to follow official safety directions and stay away from open spaces, rooftops, balconies and windows.
People outdoors were advised to enter the nearest building or seek protection behind a solid barrier. Drivers receiving the alert were told to stop away from bridges and high rise buildings.
The Civil Defense also asked people to rely on official channels for further information.
Houthi Attacks Escalate
The latest attacks follow a larger barrage last week targeting Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran. Saudi authorities said dozens of civilians were injured and some energy facilities temporarily suspended operations.
The Houthis have also made significant advances along Yemen’s western Red Sea coast. They claimed to have seized the Greater and Lesser Hanish islands, which are located north of the Bab al Mandeb Strait.
The strategic waterway connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and is an important route for global shipping.
Saudi Arabia has carried out repeated airstrikes against Houthi positions in Yemen in response to the attacks.
Houthi political bureau member Hazem al Assad said the group’s attacks would continue and escalate as long as Saudi Arabia continued what he described as aggression against Yemen.
