Battle of Narratives - and the Interest: Are the Houthis Indeed Attacking the Holy Cities in Saudi Arabia?

The article presents the war of narratives between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis regarding attacks on the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. The Saudis claim there have been strikes, the Houthis deny and accuse Saudi Arabia of lying. The piece includes quotes from both sides and international reactions, but does not determine who is right.

The article deals with a war of narratives between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis in Yemen over whether the Houthis are attacking the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. The Saudis claim the Houthis launched missiles and drones toward the cities, including interceptions on October 31, 2026, while the Houthis strongly deny this and accuse Saudi Arabia of "the biggest lie of the era" and of trying to tarnish their image. The Houthis assert that their operations target oil facilities and military bases, emphasizing that the airspace of Mecca and Medina is excluded from their threats. The article notes that Pakistan and Turkey also condemned the alleged Houthi attack. The piece does not decide which side is telling the truth, but presents the interests of each side: the Saudis seek legitimacy, and the Houthis fear damage to their religious image.

Battle of Narratives - and the Interest: Are the Houthis Indeed Attacking the Holy Cities in Saudi Arabia?