Qatar, Turkey condemn Houthi attacks on Mecca

Qatar, Turkey condemn Houthi attacks on Mecca

Qatar condemned on Wednesday the Houthi drone attack targeting Mecca, calling it a “shameful act of aggression”.

“The sanctity and security of the holy sites and the safety of those visiting them must not be targeted, threatened or used in conflicts,” the country's foreign ministry said in a statement, adding that it supports Saudi Arabia’s “measures to protect its security, territory, Islamic holy sites and pilgrims”.

Reuters reported that a Turkish presidency spokesperson said Turkey strongly condemns the attempted attack targeting Mecca, adding that preserving its peace and security is important for the Islamic world.

Turkey's foreign ministry also called for an immediate stop to these attacks, which threaten regional stability, and reaffirmed its support for Saudi Arabia's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.

Saudi Arabia said that a drone launched by the Houthis towards Mecca has been intercepted and destroyed, while the Houthis denied targeting the Islamic holy site, describing the accusation as a “nauseating lie”.