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Houthi fighters stand in front of what they say is a downed Saudi jet, at a location given as Yemen.
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Moneycontrol•06-10-2026, 03:49
Yemen Conflict Escalates as Saudi Strikes Houthi Targets and Mecca Pact Activates
  • •A Saudi-led coalition launched military strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen's Hodeidah governorate to thwart planned attacks in the southern Red Sea.
  • •The Iran-aligned Houthi group claimed retaliatory drone and missile attacks on targets inside Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh and an Aramco refinery.
  • •The recent escalation triggered the first major operational response under the Mecca Joint Defence Pact between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey.
  • •The US issued a security alert for American citizens in Saudi Arabia, urging vigilance amid ongoing aerial missile and drone threats.
  • •UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over the sharp escalation in fighting and condemned continued cross-border attacks.

Key Questions Answered

The Mecca Joint Defence Pact was activated in response to a sharp escalation in the conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, including recent Houthi missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi cities, airports, and energy infrastructure.

The Mecca Joint Defence Agreement was signed by Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey.

A Saudi-led coalition carried out military operations targeting Houthi weapons depots, facilities storing explosive-laden boats, and naval mines in Yemen's Hodeidah governorate to thwart planned attacks on Red Sea waterways.