Faisal Mahmud
16 September 2026•Update: 16 September 2026
- Bangladesh condemns attack, says safety, security of Holy Sites must be fully protected all times
Malaysia’s prime minister on Wednesday called for restraint and dialogue following the interception of a drone near the Saudi city of Mecca, warning against further regional escalation.
“I view with grave concern reports that a drone was intercepted near Makkah al-Mukarramah,” Anwar Ibrahim said in a statement posted on US social media platform X.
“Any attempt to threaten the safety and sanctity of Islam’s holiest city would be wholly unacceptable,” he said.
Anwar expressed Malaysia’s “deep appreciation” for the swift action taken by Saudi Arabia to protect residents and pilgrims in Mecca.
He said the incident highlighted the need to prevent further escalation in the region and called for an immediate halt to attacks on civilian sites and actions that could endanger holy places.
“We urge the relevant parties to exercise restraint and pursue a peaceful resolution through dialogue without delay,” the premier added.
Separately, Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry also condemned the attack and called for respecting and protecting holy sites.
"Bangladesh reaffirms its deep respect for the sanctity of Makkah Al-Mukarramah and the other Holy Sites in the Kingdom, and expresses solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its people in protecting those,” said the ministry.
"Bangladesh underscores that the safety and security of the Holy Sites must be fully respected and protected at all times,” it added.
Saudi air defenses intercepted and destroyed a drone launched by Yemen’s Houthi group near Mecca, the Saudi-led coalition said early Wednesday, while the Houthis denied responsibility for the launch.
Coalition spokesman Turki al-Malki said the drone was intercepted at around 6.50 pm local time (1550GMT) Tuesday before entering restricted airspace, with its wreckage falling south of the city.
*SM Najmus Sakib from Dhaka contributed to the story
