Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais stresses that the sanctity and security of Islam’s holiest sites must remain protected amid concerns over regional tensions and reported Houthi attacks.

The imam of the Grand Mosque in Makkah, Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais, has stressed that the sanctity of Islam’s Two Holy Mosques must never be violated, calling for collective efforts to protect the sacred sites from threats, aggression and regional tensions.

In a statement reported by Express.pk on Saturday, Al-Sudais underscored the religious significance of Makkah and Madinah, saying their dignity, security and sacred status must be safeguarded under all circumstances.

His remarks come amid concerns over reported Houthi attacks and wider regional tensions that have drawn attention to the security of sensitive sites and infrastructure in the region.

Al-Sudais said protecting the Two Holy Mosques was a shared responsibility of Muslims worldwide. He urged the Muslim community to place the respect and sanctity of the holy sites above all other considerations.

He also highlighted the unique place Makkah and Madinah hold in the hearts of Muslims, stressing that safeguarding the cities is a concern for the entire Muslim Ummah, not Saudi Arabia alone.

The imam called for efforts to ensure that the sacred cities remain free from threats and escalation. He warned against actions that could jeopardize their peace and stability, emphasizing the importance of preserving the religious significance of both locations.

Al-Sudais further stressed that protecting the Two Holy Mosques was essential to maintaining peace and stability across the wider Muslim world. His message called for collective responsibility in preventing threats to the sacred sites and respecting their status in Islam.

The Two Holy Mosques are Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, which houses the Holy Kaaba, and Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah, where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is buried. The sites welcome millions of Muslims throughout the year, particularly during the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.

Their exceptional religious significance means that developments affecting the security of Makkah and Madinah resonate across Muslim communities worldwide. Their protection remains a major concern for Saudi authorities and Muslims internationally.

Al-Sudais’s statement reinforces the importance of protecting religious sites from regional conflicts and political tensions. It also highlights the shared responsibility of Muslims to respect the sanctity of Islam’s holiest places and support efforts to preserve their security.

As regional security concerns continue, ensuring the safety of the two sacred cities remains particularly important for worshippers travelling to Saudi Arabia to perform their religious obligations.