Houthis claim Saudi F-15 shootdown over Yemen as Mecca drone row escalates

On September 16, 2026, the Houthi movement in Yemen asserted that it successfully downed a Royal Saudi Air Force F-15 fighter jet. The incident occurred over Yemen, according to the Houthis’ statement. This action further intensifies the ongoing “Mecca drone row,” referring to previous incidents involving unmanned aerial vehicles near the holy city of Mecca. The claim represents a significant escalation in tensions between the warring parties within Yemen. Military analysts are currently assessing the validity of the Houthi's report and its potential impact on regional security operations.