Al-Azhar Condemns Reported Houthi Attacks Near Islam’s Holiest Sites
CAIRO, October 26, 2026 — Egypt’s Al-Azhar has renewed its condemnation of reported Houthi attacks targeting Makkah, Madinah and surrounding areas, raising concerns about the security of Islam’s holiest sites and civilian facilities in Saudi Arabia.
According to Egypt’s State Information Service, Grand Imam Ahmed El-Tayeb issued the condemnation on Monday, October 26. The statement said Saudi air defences had intercepted the latest attacks directed towards the two holy cities near their sacred precincts.
Al-Azhar stressed the importance of protecting the sanctity of Makkah and Madinah and safeguarding the lives of pilgrims, visitors, residents and workers. It warned that threats to the holy sites could deeply affect Muslims worldwide.
The institution also called for urgent mediation and de-escalation efforts involving respected figures from across the Muslim world. It said dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution were essential to protecting lives and promoting regional stability.
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) had separately issued a condemnation concerning reported Houthi attacks targeting Makkah, Madinah and other Saudi locations in a statement published on October 23, 2026.
What is confirmed?
The publication of Al-Azhar’s statement on October 26 is confirmed by Egypt’s State Information Service. The OIC’s separate statement is also publicly available. However, the specific circumstances and full details of the reported attacks should be assessed using independent reporting and official Saudi information where available.
The developments highlight renewed concern among Islamic institutions over the protection of sacred sites and the risk of further regional escalation.
