KUALA LUMPUR: Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called on Muslims worldwide to unite and stand in solidarity to protect the sanctity of Makkah and Madinah, transcending political differences and national borders.
The Deputy Prime Minister said the two holy cities must never become battlegrounds or bargaining tools, regardless of the scale of political or military disputes.
He stressed that Makkah and Madinah must remain protected from any form of conflict, threats and military action.
"Regardless of the source of such threats or who stands behind them, I categorically reject and condemn any action that could endanger the safety of civilians, Haj and Umrah pilgrims, and the guests of Allah, or desecrate these two holy sites of the Muslim world,” he said in a statement on Monday (Sept 21).
Ahmad Zahid also reaffirmed Malaysia’s respect for the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Saudi Arabia, while expressing appreciation for the long-standing fraternal ties between the two countries.
He prayed for the continued protection and good health of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
He also prayed for divine guidance and protection for the Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, as well as peace, stability and prosperity for the Saudi people.
"May Allah SWT continue to safeguard the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, grant it peace, stability and prosperity, and protect the Two Holy Mosques and all guests of Allah from all threats and harm,” he said.
On Sept 15, Saudi authorities issued a security warning for several areas, including Makkah, Jeddah and Taif, following an increase in cross-border attacks. Authorities later announced that the threat had passed.
Saudi air defences also intercepted and destroyed a drone south of Makkah before it could enter the holy city’s restricted airspace, according to Saudi authorities. - Bernama
