OIC, Muslim states voice solidarity with Saudi Arabia

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and several Muslim-majority countries have condemned the reported interception of a drone near Makkah, expressing solidarity with Saudi Arabia and stressing the need to protect Islamic holy sites.

The OIC General Secretariat said the reported incident and attacks affecting Makkah and the Madinah region were deeply concerning. It said any threat to holy sites, mosques or civilians was unacceptable and called for measures to prevent further attacks.

Saudi Arabia’s air defence forces said they intercepted and destroyed a drone believed to have been launched by Yemen’s Houthi movement before it entered restricted airspace around Makkah. Saudi-led coalition spokesman Turki al-Malki said the drone was intercepted on Tuesday evening and its debris fell south of the city.

Al-Malki described the incident as the second reported attempt to target Makkah and said the safety of the Two Holy Mosques and pilgrims remained a major security priority.

The OIC said it stood in solidarity with Saudi Arabia and supported measures aimed at protecting its sovereignty, security and the safety of pilgrims and residents.

Yemen’s Foreign Ministry also condemned the reported drone incident, describing it as an attempt to target the holy city and a violation of Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty. The ministry expressed support for Riyadh and praised the Saudi air defences for intercepting the drone.

Yemen’s government called for stronger regional and international action to prevent further attacks and halt the supply of weapons to the Houthi movement. It also urged support for Yemen’s internationally recognised government and state institutions.

Jordan also condemned the incident, describing it as a violation of Saudi sovereignty and international law. Its Foreign Ministry expressed solidarity with Riyadh and said it supported measures to protect Saudi Arabia’s security and the safety of its citizens and residents.

Bangladesh joined the condemnation, reaffirming its respect for the sanctity of Makkah and other Islamic holy sites. Dhaka said the safety and security of the sites must be protected at all times.

Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called for restraint and urgent dialogue to prevent further escalation. He said any threat to the safety and sanctity of Makkah would be unacceptable and welcomed Saudi Arabia’s efforts to protect residents and pilgrims.