Saudi-Led Coalition Intercepts 3 Houthi Cruise Missiles Targeting Riyadh, Shoots Down 2 Drones Near Mecca

The Saudi-led coalition intercepted three Houthi cruise missiles launched toward Riyadh on November 11, marking a fresh escalation in the ongoing conflict with the Yemen-based group. Later the same day, the coalition destroyed two additional Houthi drones targeting Mecca and southern Saudi regions, underscoring the breadth of the threat to Saudi territory.

The attacks come as Egypt has deployed troops, armored units, and air defense systems inside Saudi Arabia to help protect sensitive sites including Mecca and Medina. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty confirmed the deployment to France 24, stating it had been in place for several months at Riyadh's request and was being reinforced following parliamentary approval in October 2026. Abdelatty emphasized the mission is strictly defensive and limited to Saudi soil.