Zaqy on Saudi airport attacks: Targeting civilians, civilian infrastructure ‘cannot be justified’
He urged Singaporean pilgrims in Saudi Arabia to remain vigilant and heed MFA’s travel advisories.
On October 11, Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad expressed his deep sorrow following the recent attacks on Riyadh's international airport. The Houthi militant group's assault, which killed 12 and injured over 300, marked the deadliest incident in Saudi Arabia in over a decade. Zaqy, who also serves as Senior Minister of State for Defence, emphasized that targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure is unjustifiable.
The Singaporean minister expressed hope for an end to the violence and called for peace and stability in the region. Saudi Arabia, home to Mecca and Medina, two of Islam's holiest cities, was the target of the Houthi militants. Zaqy acknowledged the concerns of Singaporeans, particularly those with family members in the country or planning to perform the lesser pilgrimage, umrah.
He urged Singaporeans, including pilgrims, to remain vigilant, abide by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' travel advisories, and register with the ministry.
The Houthi group had warned airlines, travelers, and airport workers to avoid Saudi airports on October 11. This was the third attack on the Saudi capital's airport in a week, with the latest occurring on October 9. Prior to the latest strike, Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs had condemned the attacks on civilian aviation infrastructure in Saudi Arabia.
In April, the ministry advised Singaporeans to postpone all travel to Saudi Arabia, except for visits to Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina where the security situation remained stable. Those planning to visit these cities were advised to take all necessary precautions for their personal safety, including remaining vigilant at all times.
Written by urgent.news from Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
