Yemen condemns Houthi militia's attempt to target Mecca with a drone

Aden, Sept. 16 (KUNA) -- The Yemeni government condemned on Wednesday the Houthi militia's attempt to target Makkah Al-Mukarramah with a drone, which was intercepted and destroyed by Saudi air defenses before it entered the airspace of the Holy Capital.

The Yemeni Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a statement that this attempt constitutes a violation of the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, an attack on the sanctity of the Holy Land, a threat to the safety of its residents and the guests of the Two Holy Mosques, and a provocation of the feelings of Muslims around the world.

The statement noted that this attempt is a continuation of the Houthi militia's hostile approach and its previous attempts to target Makkah Al-Mukarramah. It pointed out that this escalation, along with the recent attacks on cities, civilian landmarks, and vital facilities within the Kingdom over the past few days, reveals the danger posed by the Houthi militia amid the continued support it receives from the Iranian regime.

The statement reaffirmed Yemen's steadfast solidarity with the Kingdom, its leadership, government, and people, and supported its right to take necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty, protect Islamic sanctities, and ensure the safety of its citizens and residents in accordance with international law.

It praised the efficiency of the Saudi air defenses in thwarting the attempt and the Kingdom's efforts in caring for the Two Holy Mosques and serving their visitors.

The statement held the Houthi militia and its backer, the Iranian regime, responsible for these attacks, calling for a firm Arab, Islamic, and international stance to stop them, cut off weapons supplies to the militia, enforce the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, and support the Yemeni government in restoring state institutions and extending its authority over its entire territory.

(END) SNV / TMA