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Ahmadul Kobir, Malaysia: Malaysia has expressed support for Saudi Arabia after a drone was intercepted near Makkah, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim calling for restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation in the region.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Anwar said he was closely following reports that a drone had been intercepted near Makkah al-Mukarramah.
He commended the swift action by Saudi authorities to safeguard residents, worshippers and pilgrims in the holy city.
Anwar said any attempt to threaten the security and sanctity of Makkah, Islam’s holiest city, was unacceptable.
He warned that incidents of this nature could further heighten tensions in the region and urged all parties to exercise restraint to prevent further escalation.
The Malaysian prime minister also called for an immediate halt to attacks on civilian areas and urged all parties to avoid actions that could endanger the security and sanctity of holy sites.
He stressed the need to pursue peace and dialogue to de-escalate tensions and resolve the situation without delay.
“All parties must choose the path of peace through dialogue to de-escalate tensions and seek a resolution without delay,” he said.
Makkah attracts millions of Muslims from around the world each year, including worshippers performing Umrah. Security incidents involving the holy city therefore have implications beyond Saudi Arabia, given its importance to Muslims worldwide.