RIYADH: Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia drew condemnation from Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain after missile and drone strikes injured civilians. Meanwhile, Riyadh separately reported intercepting a drone near Makkah.
The Saudi-led coalition said ballistic missiles and drones struck Khamis Mushait, Abha and Taif on September 15. The attacks injured 13 civilians and damaged seven homes and two vehicles.
Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attacks as violations of Saudi sovereignty and international law. It reaffirmed support for measures Riyadh took to protect its territory, citizens and residents. Additionally, Kuwait said Saudi security formed an integral part of wider Gulf Cooperation Council security.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry issued a similar statement from Doha, condemning attacks on civilians and civilian sites. It backed what it described as legitimate Saudi measures to protect sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.
Bahrain also condemned the strikes, citing civilian injuries and property damage. Moreover, it said Saudi Arabia’s security and stability were integral to Bahrain’s national security.
The statements came as Saudi Arabia said its air defences destroyed a Houthi drone south of Makkah at 6:50 p.m. local time on September 15. The drone was destroyed before it entered restricted airspace over the holy city. Coalition spokesman Major General Turki al-Maliki described it as a second reported attempt to target Makkah.
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Houthi officials denied targeting Makkah, with political bureau member Mohammed al-Farah rejecting the Saudi account.
