Somalia backs Saudi Arabia after drone aimed at holy city of Makkah intercepted

Thursday September 17, 2026

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia has condemned an attempted drone attack toward the holy city of Makkah, expressing full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and affirming the kingdom’s right to protect its territory, people and Islamic holy sites.

In a statement Wednesday, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the federal government stands with Saudi Arabia under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.

“Somalia supports Saudi Arabia’s efforts to defend its sovereignty and safeguard the holy sites of Islam,” the statement said.

Saudi Arabia said a drone launched by Yemen’s Houthi movement toward Makkah was intercepted and destroyed before reaching restricted airspace.

Saudi-led coalition spokesperson Turki al-Maliki said Royal Saudi Air Defence Forces intercepted the drone on Tuesday evening.

Al-Maliki condemned the incident as an attempt to frighten worshippers and harm civilians, warning that the security of the two holy mosques and pilgrims is a “red line.”

The Houthis have previously denied targeting Makkah, saying they do not target holy sites.

Somalia’s condemnation comes amid heightened regional tensions linked to Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and shipping routes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.