Srinagar, 17 Sept: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah Thursday expressed deep concern and anguish over the reported drone incident near the HOly city of Mecca Mukarramah, allegedly involving Houthi rebels, stating that the sanctity and honour of the Haramain Sharifain are deeply connected with the faith and sentiments of the entire Muslim Ummah and must not be put at risk under any circumstances.
Dr Farooq Abdullah said that an incident of this nature near the holy city is deeply disturbing and has the potential to hurt the sentiments of Muslims across the world. He said, “Mecca Mukarramah and Madinah Munawwarah are not merely sacred places in Saudi Arabia but hold unparalleled religious significance for Muslims across the globe. The Holy Kaaba is the Qibla of Muslims, while Masjid-e-Nabawi occupies a place of extraordinary reverence in their hearts. Ensuring the safety and security of these sacred sites, protecting pilgrims and devotees performing Hajj and Umrah and maintaining peace and tranquillity are matters of fundamental importance to the entire Muslim world.”
Dr Farooq Abdullah said that West Asia is already facing prolonged wars, tensions and humanitarian crises. Ongoing conflicts in Yemen and other parts of the region have had a devastating impact on civilians, economies, infrastructure and regional peace. In such circumstances, further military confrontation cannot provide a lasting solution to the region’s problems.
He said that in view of the continuing bloodshed in Palestine and the escalating tensions in other parts of the region, the Muslim world must promote peace, unity, mutual respect and understanding instead of further division and confrontation. Differences and disputes among Muslims should be resolved through dialogue and diplomatic means rather than the use of force.
Dr Farooq Abdullah prayed for the safety and security of the Haramain Sharifain, peace and stability in the region, and the protection and well-being of all humanity. He said that in the prevailing circumstances, the Muslim Ummah must demonstrate unity, patience, wisdom and foresight rather than allowing itself to be driven by emotional divisions.