Al-Azhar Grand Imam Ahmed al-Tayeb on Monday, October 26, 2026, renewed his strong condemnation of continued Houthi attacks targeting Mecca, Medina and surrounding areas, as well as civilian facilities in Saudi Arabia. The latest attacks, directed toward the two holy cities, were intercepted by Saudi air defenses near the holy sites.

The Grand Imam reaffirmed his categorical rejection of any actions that violate the sanctity of the holy sites or endanger Saudi Arabia’s security and the safety of its citizens and visitors.

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

Al-Azhar warned that such attacks are sinful acts that offend the sentiments of nearly two billion Muslims worldwide. It added that they also constitute an assault on the country responsible for overseeing the holy sites, which hold a special place in the heart of every Muslim.

Al-Azhar expressed hope that an urgent mediation and de-escalation committee would be formed, comprising respected and level-headed figures from across the Muslim world who are committed to promoting peace and stability. The committee would work swiftly to 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 would help preserve the strength and sovereignty of Arab and Muslim nations, protect lives, and safeguard their peoples’ resources and those of future generations.