Jeddah, Sept. 23 -- Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, has condemned an alleged Houthi attempt to target Makkah, calling it a "disgraceful crime" and a violation of the sanctity of Islamic holy sites.

Chairing a Cabinet meeting in Jeddah on Tuesday, September 22, King Salman said the attempt had provoked Muslims around the world. He also praised Saudi military and security personnel for defending the holy sites and protecting pilgrims, citizens and residents.

The remarks came after Saudi authorities on Wednesday, September 16, said they intercepted and destroyed a drone launched towards Makkah on Tuesday, September 15. The Saudi-led coalition said the drone was brought down south of the ...