New Delhi, 16 September (H.S.): India has strongly condemned the drone attack near the Saudi Arabian city of Mecca, stating that the holy city holds special significance for Muslims across the world. The incident near Mecca is therefore particularly concerning, India said.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal issued a statement on Wednesday condemning the drone attack and expressed hope for the early restoration of peace and stability in the region. He said India strongly condemns attacks on the sovereign territory of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and any actions that endanger civilian lives and infrastructure.

The statement came after Saudi Arabia reported that its air defence systems had intercepted and destroyed a Houthi drone south of Mecca on Tuesday, before it could enter the restricted airspace around the holy city. The Houthis, however, denied targeting Mecca.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar