OIC backs Saudi Arabia’s security measures and calls for protection of holy sites and civilians amid regional tensions involving the Houthis.
JEDDAH: The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has strongly condemned reported Houthi attacks targeting areas around the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, saying threats to sacred sites, mosques and civilians are unacceptable.
In a statement issued by its General Secretariat, the 57-member organization expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and supported measures aimed at protecting the Kingdom’s security, sovereignty, civilians and Islamic holy sites.
The OIC said the reported attacks were intended to spread fear among civilians, violate the sanctity of sacred places and mosques, and hurt the feelings of Muslims around the world.
The statement followed reports of attempted attacks involving drones and other projectiles in areas associated with the two holy cities. Saudi authorities have separately reported intercepting aerial threats, including a drone that attempted to enter airspace around Makkah.
The developments have drawn particular attention because Makkah is home to the Grand Mosque and the Kaaba, while Madinah is home to the Prophet’s Mosque. Both cities are among the most significant religious destinations for Muslims worldwide.
OIC warns against targeting sacred sites
The OIC said attacks against holy places, mosques and civilian infrastructure amount to terrorism and are contrary to Islamic values and the principles of international law.
The organization stressed that the sanctity of religious sites must be respected and protected regardless of political or military disputes.
It also called for effective action against those responsible for attacks and urged efforts to prevent further incidents.
The statement comes amid heightened regional tensions involving the Houthi movement and Saudi Arabia. The Houthis have previously claimed attacks against Saudi territory, while Riyadh has repeatedly said it will defend its territory and population against aerial and missile threats.
Saudi Arabia receives OIC backing
The OIC expressed its full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and supported the Kingdom’s efforts to safeguard its holy sites, citizens and national security.
The organization placed particular emphasis on protecting Makkah and Madinah from military activity because of their religious significance and the presence of worshippers and visitors from across the Muslim world.
The statement also highlighted concerns over civilian safety, with the OIC saying threats to civilian areas and religious locations cannot be treated as ordinary military targets.
Saudi Arabia has continued to maintain security measures around sensitive areas as regional tensions persist. Any incident involving airspace near Makkah or Madinah receives close attention because of the potential risks to civilians and pilgrims.
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