MALÉ, Maldives — President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has strongly condemned what he described as an attempted Houthi drone attack targeting the Holy City of Makkah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

In a statement, President Muizzu said any act threatening the safety and sanctity of Makkah, one of Islam’s holiest cities, is “completely unacceptable” and deeply offensive to Muslims worldwide.

“The Maldives stands in full solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” President Muizzu said, while commending the swift response of the Royal Saudi Air Defence Forces in protecting the Holy City, pilgrims and residents.

The President called for an immediate cessation of such attacks and urged all parties involved to avoid further escalation.

He also called on those concerned to pursue peace and dialogue as a means of resolving tensions.

The statement comes amid continued regional tensions involving the Houthi movement and Saudi Arabia. Makkah and Madinah hold profound religious significance for Muslims worldwide and are visited by millions of pilgrims each year.