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Yemen's Houthi movement said it launched air strikes on Saudi Arabia, prompting the Saudi-led coalition to vow a 'firm' response to attacks on urban areas within the kingdom, marking an escalation in hostilities between the Houthis and Saudi-led forces. Analysts say Riyadh now faces mounting pressure to respond decisively as attacks edge closer to populated areas. In a related development, the Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted a drone before it could reach Mecca, Islam's holiest city, with officials describing the security of pilgrims as a 'red line.' The interception underscores the widening scope of the aerial threat facing Saudi Arabia as the conflict with Houthi forces intensifies.