Malaysia calls for restraint after drone intercepted near Mecca
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called on the parties to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue after a drone was intercepted near Mecca in Saudi Arabia. He said he viewed reports of the incident with serious concern and described as unacceptable any attempts to endanger the security and sanctity of Islam’s holiest city.
Drone interception
According to Anadolu Agency, the Saudi-led coalition reported that Saudi air defenses intercepted and destroyed a drone on Tuesday at approximately 6:50 p.m. local time. Coalition spokesperson Turki al-Maliki said the device was intercepted before it entered restricted airspace. Drone debris fell south of the city.
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Call for dialogue
Ibrahim expressed deep appreciation to Saudi Arabia for its prompt actions to protect residents and pilgrims in Mecca. According to him, the incident demonstrated the need to prevent further escalation in the region. The prime minister also called for an immediate halt to attacks on civilian facilities and actions that could endanger holy sites.
The Saudi coalition said the drone was launched by Yemen’s Houthi group. The Houthis denied involvement in the launch.
