Senior cleric condemns Houthi attacks on holy mosques as 'heinous crime'

Sheikh Dr. Sami Al-Suqair, a member of the Council of Senior Scholars, said that the Houthi militia’s targeting of the Two Holy Mosques constitutes a grave assault on two of the most sacred and beloved places to God.

He explained that attacking the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah with drones and missiles is an assault on holy sites. He noted that Makkah is home to the Sacred House, which God has honored in His words: “Purify My House,” reflecting its divine status and sanctity.

He added that the first house established for mankind is in Bakkah, as stated in the Quran: “Indeed, the first House [of worship] established for mankind was that at Bakkah—blessed and a guidance for the worlds.” The city is called Bakkah because it breaks the necks of tyrants; no tyrant has ever intended it harm except that God destroyed him.

He recalled the story of the People of the Elephant, who sought to harm Makkah and were punished by God, their story immortalized in a Quranic chapter recited to this day. He pointed out that even intending evil in the sanctuary of Makkah is considered blasphemy and warrants severe punishment, as God says: “And whoever intends therein a deviation [in religion] or wrongdoing—We will make him taste a painful punishment.”

He emphasized that Madinah is the stronghold of faith and the blessed city that embraced the Islamic message, from which the light of faith and guidance spread. The Prophet Muhammad said: “Abraham sanctified Makkah, and I have sanctified Madinah.”

Sheikh Al-Suqair described directing missiles and drones toward the Two Holy Mosques, which are visited by worshippers, pilgrims, and visitors from around the world, as a heinous crime rejected by all faiths, reason, and customs. He stressed that this act is in direct opposition to Islamic law and constitutes enmity against God and His Messenger.