Saudi Defense Systems Intercept Missile Over Medina Near Masjid An Nabawi

MEDINA, September 12, 2025 — Residents of Medina were jolted awake in the early hours of Friday by loud explosions and bright flashes above Masjid An Nabawi as Saudi defense forces intercepted a missile reportedly launched from Yemen and heading toward Israel.

Videos circulating on social media captured the dramatic moment the projectile was destroyed midair, lighting up the night sky near one of Islam’s holiest sites. Saudi authorities confirmed there were no injuries or damage in the city, and access to Masjid An Nabawi remains open.

The incident occurred amid escalating regional tensions. Yemen’s Houthi movement has previously targeted both Saudi Arabia and Israel, drawing condemnation from the international community. Security analysts warn that cross-border escalations risk destabilizing the wider Middle East, making Saudi Arabia’s advanced air defense systems critical for civilian safety and regional stability.