Riyadh:The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen announced the successful interception and destruction of a Houthi ballistic missile aimed at southern Saudi Arabia, along with a drone in the Riyadh region, amidst escalating tensions with the Yemeni group.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the coalition detailed in separate statements that its air defense systems intercepted and destroyed the ballistic missile targeting the kingdom's southern region. Additionally, a drone was intercepted and destroyed in the Riyadh region, although its origin was not specified.

These incidents are part of a recent increase in missile and drone attacks linked to Yemen's Houthi group. Earlier on Friday, Maj. Gen. Turki al-Maliki, a coalition spokesman, reported the interception and destruction of a Houthi cruise missile aimed at western Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, on Thursday, the coalition intercepted and destroyed two ballistic missiles launched by the Houthis toward Riyadh.

The Houthis have asserted responsibility for a series of recent attacks on Saudi oil facilities, airports, and military installations. The Saudi-led coalition, which intervened in Yemen in March 2015, aims to support the internationally recognized government against the Houthis, who have held control over the capital, Sanaa, since September 2014.