RIYADH-UNS :Saudi authorities issued hazard warnings for Makkah, Jeddah and Taif on Tuesday amid heightened regional tensions and continued security developments involving missile and drone attacks from Yemen.
The warning came as Saudi Arabia remained on heightened alert following a series of attacks attributed to the Iran-backed Houthi movement, which has targeted areas of the Kingdom in recent days.
Saudi authorities have urged residents and the public to remain vigilant, follow official safety instructions and rely on information issued through the Kingdom’s authorised emergency and security channels.
13 Civilians Injured in Houthi Attacks
The Saudi-led Coalition supporting legitimacy in Yemen said that 13 civilians were injured in Houthi attacks targeting areas in southern Saudi Arabia on Monday.
The attacks involved missiles and drones, according to Saudi authorities. The Coalition said the attacks caused injuries and damage in several locations, while Saudi air-defence systems continued efforts to intercept incoming threats.
The Houthis, meanwhile, claimed that they had launched dozens of missiles and drones towards a military airbase in Khamis Mushait, in southern Saudi Arabia.
The movement said the operation targeted aircraft hangars, radar installations, runways and ammunition depots. It described the attacks as retaliation for Saudi military operations in Yemen.
The Houthi claims regarding the extent of damage to the military facilities could not be independently verified.
Strait of Hormuz Traffic Declines
The latest developments coincided with a further reduction in maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important energy corridors.
Preliminary shipping data released by Kpler on Tuesday showed that four vessels passed through the Strait on Monday, compared with 10 vessels on the previous day, indicating a sharp decline in maritime movements amid escalating tensions and military operations in the wider Middle East.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical route for global energy supplies, and any sustained disruption could have significant implications for international oil and shipping markets.
Israeli Operations Continue Across the Region
Meanwhile, Israeli military operations continued in the occupied West Bank, southern Lebanon and the Gaza Strip, amid reports of casualties and material damage in several locations.
The continuing military activity has added to growing regional tensions, with developments across Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Gaza and the wider Gulf being closely monitored by governments and international organisations.
Regional Security Situation
The latest developments reflect a rapidly evolving regional security environment, with missile and drone attacks, military operations and disruptions to maritime traffic occurring simultaneously across several theatres.
Saudi authorities have continued to emphasise the Kingdom’s right to protect its territory and civilian population, while international concern remains focused on the potential for further escalation and its consequences for regional security, shipping and global energy markets.
This is a developing story. Further updates will follow as official information becomes available.
