Saudi Arabia Says It Intercepted Six Ballistic Missiles From Yemen

Saudi Arabia says its air defences intercepted six ballistic missiles launched from Yemen toward Taif and Yanbu. ( Photo credit: Unsplash)

 RIYADH, September 24, 2026 — Saudi Arabia said its air defences intercepted six ballistic missiles launched from Yemen on Thursday, with the Saudi-led coalition saying the missiles were aimed toward the western Saudi cities of Taif and Yanbu.

The coalition said the missiles were intercepted and destroyed before reaching their intended targets. It did not immediately provide details about damage or casualties resulting from the incident.

Emergency alerts issued

Saudi civil defence authorities issued warnings over potential danger in several areas, including Mecca, Jeddah, Yanbu, Taif and Tabuk. Authorities later said the danger had passed.

Yanbu is particularly significant because it is a major Red Sea port and an important location for Saudi oil infrastructure. The port can become especially important for crude exports when shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is disrupted.

Greek-operated Patriot system also involved

Reuters separately reported that an air-defence system operated by Greek military personnel in Saudi Arabia intercepted a ballistic missile and a drone in the wider Yanbu region. Greek security sources said the Patriot system was used in the interceptions.

The Houthis later claimed that they had launched an attack involving missiles and drones against Saudi military sites in the Jazan region. Those claims included casualty figures that were not independently verified.

Rising regional tensions

The latest incident comes amid renewed fighting involving the Houthis and Saudi-backed forces in Yemen. Yemeni government forces also said they had repelled Houthi attacks around a strategically important road linking areas around Aden and Taiz.

The developments add to wider security concerns around the Red Sea and Gulf region, particularly because Yanbu is connected to Saudi Arabia’s oil-export infrastructure. Oil prices also moved higher during Thursday’s trading session amid concerns about possible supply disruptions.

The situation remains developing, and further details about the missile launches, damage and casualties may change as authorities release additional information.