Cairo:Al-Azhar Grand Imam Ahmed El-Tayeb has renewed his strong condemnation of continued Houthi attacks targeting Mecca, Medina, and surrounding areas, including civilian facilities in Saudi Arabia. The recent assaults, aimed at the two holy cities, were intercepted by Saudi air defenses near these sacred sites.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the Grand Imam reaffirmed his categorical rejection of any actions that violate the sanctity of the holy sites or jeopardize Saudi Arabia's security and the safety of its citizens and visitors.

Al-Azhar reiterated its condemnation of the Houthi attack, which approached dangerously close to the precincts of the Two Holy Mosques and surrounding sacred areas. It emphasized that aggression against these areas is forbidden by God, who has ensured the safety of all living beings there, including humans, animals, plants, as well as pilgrims, visitors, residents, and workers.

Al-Azhar warned that such attacks are sinful acts that offend nearly two billion Muslims worldwide. It stated that these actions also constitute an assault on the country responsible for overseeing the holy sites, which are cherished by Muslims globally.

Furthermore, Al-Azhar expressed hope for the formation of an urgent mediation and de-escalation committee. This committee would comprise respected and level-headed figures from the Muslim world dedicated to promoting peace and stability. Its aim would be to swiftly defuse escalating crises and conflicts and resolve disputes among members of the same faith and nation that threaten the security and stability of their countries.

Such efforts are intended to preserve the strength and sovereignty of Arab and Muslim nations, protect lives, and safeguard resources for current and future generations.