Saudi Arabia launches air strikes on Yemen as Houthi drone near Mecca escalates regional conflict

Saudi Arabia has launched heavy air strikes on Yemen following a series of cross-border attacks by Houthi rebels. The escalation comes after Saudi forces intercepted an armed drone close to the holy city of Mecca, prompting strong warnings from the kingdom. Officials in Saudi Arabia stated that the nation will respond firmly to these ongoing security threats. The recent week of strikes has triggered new security alerts across the country and led to a sharp surge in global oil prices. Meanwhile, international attention remains focused on the region as fears grow that the widening conflict could draw in further external powers.