Story perspectives

Saudi intercepts six missiles targeting Yanbu and Taif

By Drooid · Sep 27, 2026, 10:04 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Houthi forces have launched missiles, drones and a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia since July 13 2026, targeting cities and oil infrastructure.
Saudi officials intercepted six ballistic missiles aimed at Yanbu and Taif on Sept. 24.
The Saudi-led coalition destroyed two drones and two ballistic missiles targeting Riyadh and Khamis Mushait on Sept. 26.
Houthi forces seized about 130 km of Yemen’s Red Sea coast, including Bab el-Mandeb, displacing roughly 138,000 people, 70,000 children.

History

Historical Context

In March 2015, Saudi Arabia led a coalition air campaign in Yemen to restore President Hadi’s government and halt Houthi territorial gains. The United States supplied more than 100 precision-guided munitions, and the United Nations recorded roughly 3,500 civilian deaths by 2017. Now, in September 2026 Houthi rebels launch ballistic missiles and drones at Riyadh, Yanbu, and the Bab al-Mandeb, re-establishing a 130-km naval blockade. The pattern compels NATO navies to expand escort fleets, while regional powers press for renewed diplomatic talks to avert further displacement of over 138,000 civilians.

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Story summary

Houthi forces have launched missiles, drones and a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia since July 13 2026, targeting cities and oil infrastructure.
Saudi officials intercepted six ballistic missiles aimed at Yanbu and Taif on Sept. 24.
The Saudi-led coalition destroyed two drones and two ballistic missiles targeting Riyadh and Khamis Mushait on Sept. 26.
Houthi forces seized about 130 km of Yemen’s Red Sea coast, including Bab el-Mandeb, displacing roughly 138,000 people, 70,000 children.

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