India, Oct. 30 -- The Saudi-led coalition said on Friday it intercepted and destroyed a drone launched by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels.

A coalition spokesperson, Maj Gen Turki al-Malki, said the drone was intercepted in the region surrounding Mecca, Islam's holiest city and a destination for millions of Muslim pilgrims each year.

Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree denied carrying out any operations targeting Mecca, saying in a statement that the group's military operations are aimed at Saudi oil facilities and military bases.

Saudi Arabia has previously reported intercepting missiles and drones headed toward Mecca and Medina. The Houthis have repeatedly denied targeting either city. Meanwhile, Iran state media said Friday th...