Escalating conflict between Houthi forces in Yemen and Saudi Arabia has centered on Houthi missile and drone strikes targeting Saudi airports and energy infrastructure, including a deadly October 2026 attack on Riyadh’s airport that killed pilgrims and prompted flight suspensions. Houthis have repeatedly stated they will not strike Mecca or Medina, framing their operations as retaliation for Saudi-led coalition airstrikes in Yemen while avoiding Islam’s holiest sites. Saudi authorities intercepted a claimed Houthi drone near Mecca in September 2026, labeling any threat to the city a “red line” that would trigger stronger responses. Ongoing exchanges of fire, territorial gains by Houthis along Yemen’s Red Sea coast, and involvement of regional actors continue to shape assessments of whether direct action against Mecca will occur before any specified resolution date.