India voices concern over attempted drone attack on Mecca - The Hindu

**India Raises Alarm Over Attempted Drone Attack on Mecca**

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior confirmed on Thursday that an unmanned aerial vehicle was intercepted over the holy city of Mecca as it approached the Masjid al‑Harām, the most sacred site in Islam. The incident, which occurred during the early hours of the day, prompted swift security measures and a temporary suspension of pilgrim movements near the Grand Mosque. Saudi officials have not disclosed the origin of the drone, but preliminary investigations point to a possible link with the Houthi rebels operating out of Yemen, who have escalated attacks on Saudi infrastructure in recent weeks (Reuters).

In a formal statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs, India expressed “deep concern” over the attempted drone intrusion and reiterated its commitment to the safety of Muslims worldwide. The statement, reported by *The Hindu*, urged the Saudi government to share any intelligence that could aid in identifying the perpetrators and called for a coordinated international response to protect holy places from “any form of violence.” India’s foreign ministry also highlighted the need for the global community to condemn attacks that threaten the sanctity of religious sites, underscoring the country’s longstanding diplomatic ties with Saudi Arabia.

The episode arrives amid a widening Middle‑East conflict, with Houthi militants intensifying missile and drone strikes against Saudi targets, including a recent claim of downing a Saudi F‑15 fighter jet (The Times of India). Regional dynamics have further complicated matters: Pakistan’s attempts to mediate between the warring parties have drawn criticism, while a proposed Pakistan‑Türkiye‑Saudi defense pact aimed at safeguarding Mecca has been deemed “dead on arrival” by analysts (ThePrint). The failed attack underscores the fragile security environment surrounding the pilgrimage season and raises questions about the effectiveness of existing regional defense arrangements.