Al-Azhar Grand Imam condemns Houthi attacks on Mecca and Medina

Ahmed al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, has issued a statement strongly condemning recent attacks by the Houthi group targeting Mecca, Medina, and civilian facilities in Saudi Arabia. The Al-Azhar Foundation described the attacks as "sinful" and a provocation to the feelings of nearly two billion Muslims worldwide, noting that they threaten the sanctity of the holy sites and the safety of pilgrims.

Saudi authorities reported intercepting two missiles launched by the Iran-backed Houthi group aimed at the holy cities. In response, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree dismissed the claims as "great lies," asserting that their operations target only oil facilities and military bases.

In light of the escalation, Al-Tayeb called for the urgent formation of a mediation and calming committee. This committee, composed of wise representatives from the Muslim community, would aim to defuse regional conflicts, end disputes between members of the faith, and prevent further instability in the region.