SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Thursday expressed concern over the reported drone incident near the holy city of Mecca, allegedly involving Houthi rebels, and said the safety and sanctity of the Haramain Sharifain were the collective responsibility of the Muslim world.
Abdullah said any incident near Mecca could hurt the sentiments of Muslims across the world, given the religious significance of Mecca and Medina.
“Mecca Mukarramah and Madinah Munawwarah are not merely sacred places in Saudi Arabia but hold unparalleled religious significance for Muslims across the globe,” he said.
He said the security of the holy sites, as well as the safety of pilgrims undertaking Hajj and Umrah, should remain a priority.
Abdullah also expressed concern over the continuing conflicts and tensions in West Asia, particularly the situation in Yemen and Palestine, saying prolonged military confrontation had caused extensive civilian suffering and damage to infrastructure and economies.
He called for disputes in the region to be addressed through dialogue and diplomatic efforts rather than force.
“In such circumstances, further military confrontation cannot provide a lasting solution to the region’s problems,” Abdullah said.
He also appealed to the Muslim world to promote peace, unity and mutual understanding amid the continuing instability in the region.
Abdullah prayed for the safety of the Haramain Sharifain, peace and stability in the region, and the well-being of people affected by the conflicts.
