Najran:The Saudi-led coalition, which supports Yemen's internationally recognized government, announced on Thursday that it successfully intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile launched by Yemen's Houthi group. The missile was targeting the southwestern Saudi city of Najran, located near the Yemeni border.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, coalition spokesman Maj. Gen. Turki al-Maliki confirmed via US social media company X that the missile was intercepted and destroyed, with no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

In a separate statement, the coalition addressed and dismissed Houthi claims alleging Saudi threats to target tribal and civilian gatherings in Yemen. The coalition labeled these allegations as baseless and fabricated, accusing the Houthis of attempting to mislead public opinion and divert attention from their own actions. The coalition emphasized that Yemeni tribes are a vital part of Yemen's social and historical fabric, serving as a link of brotherhood between the Saudi and Yemeni peoples.

The coalition reiterated Saudi Arabia's dedication to Yemen's security and stability, opposing any attempts to exploit Yemeni tribes or involve them in the ongoing conflict. This missile interception occurs amid a renewed military escalation between the Houthis and the Saudi-led coalition since July, with both parties engaging in reciprocal attacks.

Earlier on Thursday, Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree claimed the group had conducted four missile and drone attacks on Saudi targets within the preceding 48 hours, including facilities in Riyadh, Dammam, Yanbu, and Abha. Saudi Arabia has led the military coalition supporting Yemen's government against the Houthis since March 2015.