SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Friday condemned reported attacks by Houthi rebels operating from Yemen on civilian and energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, including King Fahd International Airport, and expressed grief over the loss of lives and injuries.
In a statement, Abdullah warned that attacks targeting civilians, airports and energy facilities threatened regional stability and could have wider global consequences.
He said the escalating tensions in West Asia risked affecting international peace, energy supplies, trade and economic stability, with ordinary people and low-income households likely to bear a disproportionate share of the impact through higher fuel prices and economic pressures.
Abdullah said the region was already facing complex conflicts and warned that further provocative actions could worsen the situation. He called on all parties to exercise restraint, pursue diplomatic solutions and ensure the protection of civilian lives, property and essential infrastructure.
He also urged the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions, protect civilians and prevent a wider humanitarian and economic crisis.
Referring to the importance of Makkah Mukarramah and Madinah Munawwarah, collectively known as the Haramain Sharifain, Abdullah said safeguarding the two holy sites and the people associated with them was a responsibility of all concerned parties. He prayed for their protection and for peace, unity and security across the Muslim world.
Earlier on Friday, Abdullah offered prayers at the Dargah Hazratbal in Srinagar alongside thousands of devotees. He prayed for lasting peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir, the well-being of Muslims, the Palestinian people and the safety of the Haramain Sharifain, besides progress and development in the region.
