Maldives Condemns Attempted Houthi Drone Attack on Holy City of Makkah

The Maldives has issued a strong condemnation following an attempted drone attack by the Houthi militia targeting the holy city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia. The incident represents a significant security breach targeting one of the most sacred sites in the Islamic world. According to a statement from the Maldivian government, the drone was successfully intercepted and destroyed by the Royal Saudi Air Defence Forces before it could penetrate the restricted airspace of Makkah. The timely intervention prevented the drone from reaching its target, ensuring the safety of those within the city. The government emphasized that any attempt to threaten Makkah or endanger pilgrims, worshippers, residents, and citizens is entirely unacceptable. In its statement, the Maldives noted that such actions constitute a grave violation of the sanctity of Islam’s holiest city, where millions of Muslims gather for worship and pilgrimage. Furthermore, the Maldivian administration described the attack as a dangerous escalation that poses a direct threat to regional peace and security. The incident underscores the volatile security landscape in the region and the ongoing risks posed by non-state actors using unmanned aerial technology. Reaffirming its solidarity with the government and people of Saudi Arabia, the Maldives expressed its full support for the measures taken by the Kingdom to safeguard its national sovereignty. The statement concluded by highlighting the importance of protecting the Two Holy Mosques from external threats to ensure the continued safety of the global Muslim community.