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Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for restraint and dialogue after Saudi Arabia reportedly intercepted a drone near Makkah.
In a statement on Wednesday (September 16), Anwar expressed concern over the incident and urged all sides to avoid actions that could further escalate tensions in the region, Anadolu Agency reported.
“I view with deep concern reports of a drone being intercepted near Makkah Al-Mukarramah,” Anwar said in a statement posted on X.
He said any attempt to threaten the security and sanctity of Islam’s holiest city was unacceptable. He also expressed appreciation to Saudi Arabia for taking swift action to protect residents and pilgrims in Makkah.
Anwar said the incident underscored the need to prevent further escalation in the region. He called for an immediate halt to attacks on civilian infrastructure and any actions that could endanger the security of holy sites.
The Malaysian prime minister urged all parties to exercise restraint and pursue a peaceful solution through dialogue without delay.
Earlier on Wednesday, the Saudi-led coalition said its air defence systems had detected and destroyed a drone launched by Yemen’s Houthi group near Makkah. The Houthis, however, denied involvement in launching the drone.
Coalition spokesperson Turki Al-Malki said the drone was intercepted at around 6:50pm local time on Tuesday, before entering Makkah’s restricted airspace. Its debris later fell south of the city.
Source: Anadolu Agency
