GCC chief condemns Houthi drone attack on Mecca, urges firm global response

Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohammed Albudaiwi has strongly condemned the Houthi militia's attempted drone attack targeting the holy city of Mecca, describing it as a treacherous terrorist act.

He stressed that this criminal act by the Houthis represents a dangerous escalation, a blatant violation of the sanctity of Islam’s holiest site, and a disregard for the safety of civilians. Albudaiwi said such attacks on Mecca reveal an extremist approach that shows no respect for sacred places or civilian security, and require a firm and deterrent international stance to end these violations and hold those responsible accountable.

The Secretary-General emphasized that any attack on Mecca and its sanctity is not only an assault on Saudi Arabia, but also a grave provocation to Muslims worldwide. He warned that targeting holy sites marks a dangerous escalation that cannot be tolerated.

Albudaiwi reaffirmed that GCC member states stand united with Saudi Arabia, considering the Kingdom’s security and the protection of its holy sites as integral to the security of the entire Council. He reiterated full support for all measures Saudi Arabia takes to safeguard its sovereignty, territory, holy sites, citizens, and residents, and to deter any threats to its security and stability.