Saudi Arabia asserts right to take all necessary measures after Houthi drone attack on Makkah

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia denounced the Houthi militia's drone attack on Makkah, asserting its right to take all necessary defensive measures. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs labeled the incident a cowardly terrorist strike on the Holy City, a site of profound religious significance for Muslims worldwide. The ministry emphasized the attack as a provocation to Muslims globally, echoing the militia's track record of targeting holy sites and inciting outrage among Muslims.

Saudi Arabia highlighted this as the second instance of Houthi aggression against Makkah, following a similar incident on July 27, 2017. The Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces' swift interception and destruction of the drone within Makkah's restricted airspace were praised. The Kingdom also reiterated its call for the international community to condemn such attacks and take a firm stance against Houthi incursions into Saudi Arabia's holy sites, civilian infrastructure, and economic interests, as well as their threats to maritime navigation and global trade.

In summary, Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its right to defend its holy sites, pilgrims, and national territory against any threat.