Yemen’s Houthi movement’s top commander publicly refuted allegations that its forces have aimed at Mecca, the Islam’s holiest site, during a recent interview with Al Jazeera. The leader emphasized that the group respects the sanctity of the city and reiterated a commitment to protect it from any form of aggression.
The statement comes as Saudi Arabia and its allies have accused the Houthis of launching missile and drone attacks that could potentially endanger civilian areas in the Kingdom, including the vicinity of Mecca. The Houthi spokesperson denied any intention to strike religious sites, describing such claims as “misinformation” intended to tarnish the group’s image.
In the broadcast, the Houthi chief highlighted the organization’s historical stance against targeting places of worship, noting that the movement’s ideology forbids attacks on holy locations. He urged regional actors to focus on diplomatic solutions to the broader conflict rather than inflaming public sentiment with unverified accusations.
Saudi officials have not responded directly to the Houthi remarks, but have previously warned that any threat to the safety of pilgrims or the city’s infrastructure would be met with decisive action. The ongoing war in Yemen, which entered its ninth year, continues to affect cross‑border security dynamics, with both sides accusing each other of violating international norms.
International observers have called for restraint from all parties to prevent escalation that could jeopardize the safety of millions of pilgrims who travel to Mecca each year. The Houthi leader’s pledge adds another layer to the complex narrative surrounding the conflict’s impact on religious sites in the region.
Reporting attribution: based on reporting by Al Jazeera — All News — original source: https://www.aljazeera.com/video/newsfeed/2026/9/17/houthi-leader-denies-targeting-mecca-vows-to-protect-holy-city?traffic_source=rss.