India 'Deeply Concerned' Over Drone Incident Near Mecca, Calls For Peace & Stability In Region

India voiced grave apprehension over a recent drone incident near Mecca on Wednesday, reinforcing its stance against assaults on Saudi Arabia's territorial integrity and urging the swift reestablishment of peace and stability in the region. "The drone attack near Makkah deeply troubled us," stated a Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson.

"We reiterate our condemnation of attacks targeting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's sovereign territory and any actions that jeopardize the safety of civilians and infrastructure. This incident near Makkah is especially alarming due to the profound religious significance the city holds for Muslims worldwide."

The Ministry directed reporters to a link for further details on the drone attack near Makkah. On Tuesday, Saudi Arabia announced it had intercepted and destroyed a Houthi drone south of Mecca using its air defenses. The drone, according to Saudi officials, was neutralized before it entered the city's restricted airspace. However, the Houthi group denied any involvement in targeting Mecca or any other Islamic holy site.

The looming conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis has heightened tensions in the region. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have launched attacks on Saudi territory and threatened maritime traffic in the Red Sea. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed strong condemnation of the alleged drone attack on Mecca, calling for restraint and emphasizing that dialogue and diplomacy are the only viable routes to peace.