Amman – The Jordanian government issued a strong condemnation on November 5, 2026, after intelligence reports indicated that the Yemen‑based Houthi militia attempted to launch a ballistic missile toward the holy city of Medina in Saudi Arabia. In a formal statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the act as a “provocative affront to Muslim sentiments” and an “egregious violation of the Kingdom’s sovereignty, security and stability.”

The ministry further characterized the launch as a clear breach of international law and the United Nations Charter, underscoring the potential danger such attacks pose to civilians and to the broader regional peace. While the missile did not reach its intended target, Jordan stressed that the attempt itself represented a serious threat to the safety of Saudi citizens, residents and the millions of pilgrims who visit the two holy mosques each year.

Jordan’s foreign ministry affirmed “unconditional and absolute solidarity” with Saudi Arabia, pledging full support for any measures the Kingdom deems necessary to safeguard its borders and protect its population. The statement highlighted the long‑standing strategic partnership between Amman and Riyadh, noting that both countries share common interests in counter‑terrorism, regional stability and the protection of religious sites.

The condemnation follows similar denunciations from neighboring Gulf states, including Kuwait and Qatar, which also labeled the Houthi launch as an act of terrorism. The coordinated diplomatic response reflects the broader regional consensus that the Houthi militia’s growing missile capabilities pose a destabilising factor across the Arabian Peninsula.

No casualties were reported in Medina as the missile failed to strike, and Saudi authorities have not yet released details on the interception or defensive measures employed. Nonetheless, the incident has prompted Saudi officials to reaffirm their commitment to enhancing missile defence systems around critical infrastructure and pilgrimage sites.

International observers note that the Houthi group, which is designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, has increasingly turned to long‑range ballistic missiles in its campaign against Saudi interests. The latest attempt underscores the escalating risk of missile attacks targeting high‑profile religious locations, raising concerns among security analysts about potential future threats.

Jordan’s declaration reinforces the Kingdom’s diplomatic isolation of the Houthi movement and signals readiness to cooperate with Saudi Arabia on intelligence sharing and joint security initiatives aimed at thwarting similar attacks.

The incident arrives at a sensitive time, as Saudi Arabia prepares for the upcoming Hajj season, during which millions of Muslims from around the world converge on Mecca and Medina. Ensuring the safety of pilgrims remains a top priority for Saudi authorities, who are expected to intensify security protocols in the coming weeks.

Jordan’s unequivocal stance serves as a reminder of the close political and security ties binding the two neighboring monarchies, and of their joint resolve to confront any threats that jeopardise regional peace and the sanctity of Islam’s holiest sites.

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