Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has condemned an attempted drone attack near Makkah, calling any threat to the security and sanctity of Islam’s holiest sites a red line that must never be crossed.
Addressing the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Shehbaz said the reported incident had caused deep concern among Muslims worldwide. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and stressed that the safety of Makkah and Madinah remains a matter of profound importance to Muslims.
Saudi authorities have blamed Yemen’s Houthi movement for the attempted attack, saying a drone was intercepted near Makkah. The Houthis have denied responsibility for the incident.
The incident has added to regional tensions at a time when the Middle East is already facing multiple security challenges.
Shehbaz said Pakistan stands firmly with Saudi Arabia in protecting the sanctity of the holy sites and expressed support for efforts to maintain their security.
The Pakistani prime minister’s remarks at the UN underline Islamabad’s position that the protection of Islam’s holiest sites must remain beyond political and military confrontation.
The Saudi allegation and Houthi denial leave responsibility for the reported incident contested, while authorities continue to focus on security around the holy city.
