Houthi Leader Denies Targeting Mecca, Pledges to Protect Holy City

Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi has denied that his movement intends to target Mecca, according to a report by Al Jazeera.

In remarks cited by the outlet, al-Houthi pledged to protect Mecca and other Islamic holy sites, pushing back against claims that the group poses a threat to the cities.

Al Jazeera did not provide further details on the context in which the comments were made or specify the claims al-Houthi was responding to.

The Houthi movement, which controls parts of Yemen, has been engaged in a prolonged conflict involving regional actors, including Saudi Arabia, which is home to Mecca and Medina, Islam's two holiest cities.

Al Jazeera's report did not include additional statements from al-Houthi or reaction from Saudi authorities.