Makkah: Sheikh Dr Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, President of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, has condemned reported Houthi attacks targeting the regions of Makkah and Madinah, describing any threat to Islam’s two holiest cities as a serious violation of their sanctity.
In a statement reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Al-Sudais said the alleged attacks violated Islamic Sharia, which prohibits aggression and calls for the protection of sacred places.
He accused the Houthi militia of disregarding the religious significance of the Two Holy Mosques and the sentiments of Muslims worldwide. He also said targeting holy sites, civilians and infrastructure was prohibited under Islamic law and contrary to international norms.
Al-Sudais maintained that such attacks would not weaken Saudi Arabia’s security and stability. Instead, he said, they would reinforce the determination of the Kingdom’s leadership and people to protect the holy sites and their visitors.
Praising Saudi Arabia’s efforts to safeguard the Two Holy Mosques, he described their security as a “red line that must not be breached.”
Saudi Arabia reports missile interceptions
The condemnation came amid reports of fresh attacks involving missiles and drones across parts of Saudi Arabia.
Saudi authorities said two ballistic missiles launched towards the Makkah and Madinah regions were intercepted on Saturday. Civil Defence teams also responded to incidents involving falling debris at several locations in western Saudi Arabia.
The reported locations included Wadi Al Mughammas in Makkah, Al Nuzha in Jeddah, Wadi Jalil in Taif and Masturah in Rabigh.
Authorities have been responding to the reported incidents as concerns continue over threats to populated areas and critical infrastructure.
Houthis deny targeting the holy cities
The Houthis denied targeting Makkah and Madinah, describing Saudi Arabia’s allegations as a “huge lie.”
The conflicting statements leave the circumstances surrounding the reported attacks disputed. Saudi authorities have reported missile interceptions, while the Houthis have rejected claims that the two holy cities were their targets.
The developments have renewed attention on the security of Makkah and Madinah, which hold central religious significance for Muslims around the world.
