Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Thursday expressed deep concern over the reported drone incident near the holy city of Mecca Mukarramah, allegedly involving Houthi rebels. He said the sanctity and honour of the Haramain Sharifain are closely linked to the faith and sentiments of Muslims across the world and must never be endangered under any circumstances.
Dr Abdullah described the reported incident near Islam’s holiest city as deeply disturbing, saying it has the potential to hurt the sentiments of Muslims globally.
“Mecca Mukarramah and Madinah Munawwarah are not merely sacred places in Saudi Arabia; they hold unparalleled religious significance for Muslims everywhere. The Holy Kaaba is the Qibla of Muslims, while Masjid-e-Nabawi occupies a place of profound reverence in their hearts. Ensuring the safety and security of these sacred sites, safeguarding pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah, and maintaining peace and tranquillity are matters of utmost importance for the entire Muslim world,” he said.
Dr Abdullah noted that West Asia is already grappling with prolonged conflicts, instability and humanitarian crises. He said the ongoing wars and tensions in Yemen and other parts of the region have inflicted immense suffering on civilians while damaging economies, infrastructure and prospects for lasting peace.
“In such circumstances, further military confrontation cannot provide a sustainable solution to the region’s challenges,” he said.
Referring to the continuing bloodshed in Palestine and rising tensions elsewhere in the region, Dr Abdullah stressed the need for the Muslim world to promote peace, unity, mutual respect and understanding instead of deepening divisions and confrontation. He said differences and disputes among Muslims should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy rather than the use of force.
Dr Abdullah prayed for the safety and security of the Haramain Sharifain, peace and stability across the region, and the well-being of all humanity. He said the present situation calls for unity, patience, wisdom and foresight within the Muslim Ummah, rather than allowing emotional divisions to prevail.
