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Saudi Arabia Thwarts Second Day of Houthi Drone Attacks

Saudi Arabia intercepts drones launched by Iran-backed Houthis for a second consecutive day, amid escalating tensions in the region.

Editorial Desk

July 29, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — The Saudi Defence Ministry reported on Tuesday that it successfully intercepted and destroyed drones fired by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, marking the second consecutive day of such attacks. Simultaneously, the Houthis claimed responsibility for forcing a Saudi oil tanker to turn back as part of their blockade efforts against the kingdom.

These incidents highlight the ongoing tensions in the region, despite a recent period of relative calm between the United States and Iran. Both nations haven’t announced any attacks in recent days, following weeks of heightened hostilities over the Strait of Hormuz.

The Saudi Defence Ministry provided details on the intercepted drones, stating that they were targeting critical infrastructure within the kingdom. The ministry didn’t report any casualties or significant damage resulting from the attacks.

In a separate development, the Houthis claimed via their official media channels that they had compelled a Saudi oil tanker to reverse course, asserting this action as part of their ongoing blockade against Saudi Arabia. The specific details — and verification of this claim remain unclear.

The recent escalations come amid a backdrop of complex geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East. The United States and its allies have been closely monitoring the situation, with concerns over the potential for broader conflict.

For more on regional security developments, read: Kuwait-Pakistan Defence Pact: A Strategic Partnership for Regional Stability.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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Editorial Desk

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