India condemns drone attack near Mecca, strikes on civilians and infrastructure

Randhir Jaiswal said the incident near Mecca was deeply concerning due to its religious significance, while India hoped for an early restoration of regional peace and stability.The latest development follows a series of attacks on Saudi territory and critical infrastructure. (File photo)India on Wednesday voiced concern over a reported drone attack near Mecca in Saudi Arabia and condemned attacks that threaten the kingdom’s sovereignty, civilians and infrastructure. The Ministry of External Affairs also underlined the special religious significance of Mecca for Muslims around the world.MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We are deeply concerned at the drone attack near Makkah. India reiterates its condemnation of attacks on the sovereign territory of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and of actions that endanger civilian lives and infrastructure".Jaiswal said the location of the incident raised concerns given Mecca’s importance as Islam’s holiest city and a major destination for pilgrims. India also expressed hope that peace and stability would be restored in the region at the earliest."The incident near Makkah is particularly concerning, given the special significance of the city to Muslims across the world. We hope for the early restoration of peace and stability in the region," he added. The statement followed a report by Saudi authorities that a drone had been intercepted and destroyed south of Mecca before reaching the restricted airspace around the holy city.The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions involving Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement. The Houthis have denied targeting Mecca and other religious sites, while claiming responsibility for attacks on other Saudi targets. Saudi Arabia has, meanwhile, remained on heightened alert amid a series of security threats in the region.India’s response reiterated its opposition to attacks on sovereign territory and actions that endanger civilians. New Delhi’s appeal for an early return to peace comes as wider tensions continue to pose security challenges across the Middle East.- EndsPublished On: Sep 16, 2026 15:58 IST