Zahid calls for sanctity of Makkah, Madinah to be protected

KUALA LUMPUR: Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has strongly condemned any action that could jeopardize the safety of civilians and pilgrims or desecrate Islam's two most sacred sites in Saudi Arabia, Makkah and Madinah. As deputy prime minister, Zahid expressed his deep concern over developments affecting these holy sites, emphasizing that they must remain inviolable from conflict, threats, and military action.

He reiterated that his stance is crystal clear: Makkah and Madinah must be safeguarded from all forms of conflict, threats, or military intervention, irrespective of the origin of the threats or the individuals responsible. In a statement, Zahid firmly rejected and denounced any action that could endanger civilians, Haj and Umrah pilgrims, or the visitors to these holy sites, as well as any act that could desecrate the two revered sites.

Despite potential political or military disagreements, Zahid stressed that the sanctity of Makkah and Madinah should not be a battleground or a subject of negotiation. He called upon all Muslims to stand united in defending the sanctity of these sites, regardless of political differences or geographical boundaries. Zahid also extended his prayers for the health and welfare of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the people of Saudi Arabia.

On Wednesday, the Saudi-led military coalition battling Yemen's Houthi rebels accused the group of targeting Makkah, causing widespread outrage across the Muslim world and intensifying regional tensions. The Houthi group denied the allegations, labeling Riyadh's claim as a falsehood. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, a coalition of 57 Muslim nations, also condemned the attack.