Yemeni Scholars Reject Saudi Claims of Mecca Targeting, Cite Western Threats

SANAA, Yemen — A coalition of Yemeni scholars on Sunday rejected allegations by the Saudi government that Yemeni forces targeted the holy city of Mecca, labeling the claims as a fabrication. In a joint statement issued from Sana'a, the Conference of Yemeni Scholars and the Association of Yemeni Scholars argued that the genuine threats to the sanctity of the Islamic holy sites stem from the presence of United States and Western military bases in the region, alongside perceived Zionist influence.

The declaration comes amid heightened tensions between Riyadh and Sana'a following recent security incidents. Saudi officials have previously asserted that Yemeni factions launched projectiles or drones toward Mecca, a claim the Saudi government says poses a direct danger to pilgrims and religious infrastructure. The Yemeni scholars' statement directly contradicted this narrative, asserting that no such attack occurred and characterizing the Saudi allegations as a political maneuver designed to divert attention from broader regional security concerns.

Speaking to gathered supporters at Sabeen Square in Sana'a, representatives of the scholars emphasized that the stability of Mecca is compromised not by Yemeni actions, but by foreign military footprints. They specifically pointed to U.S. and allied bases operating in the Arabian Peninsula as sources of instability that endanger the holy city more than any local actor. The group further cited the influence of Zionist interests in the region as a primary driver of conflict that threatens Islamic heritage sites.

The Saudi government has not immediately responded to the specific wording of the scholars' statement, though Riyadh maintains its position that Yemeni groups remain an active security threat to the Kingdom's borders and religious centers. The dispute highlights the deepening ideological rift between the two nations, with Sana'a accusing Riyadh of using security narratives to justify military campaigns, while Riyadh insists on the necessity of neutralizing cross-border threats.

The scholars warned that continued reliance on Western military alliances would only exacerbate tensions in the Arabian Peninsula. They called for an immediate end to foreign military presence in the region as a prerequisite for securing the safety of Mecca and Medina. The statement also urged other Muslim nations to recognize what they described as the true sources of danger to Islamic holy sites.

As diplomatic channels remain strained, the conflicting narratives over the security of Mecca have intensified regional rhetoric. It remains unclear whether the Saudi government will issue a formal rebuttal to the specific accusations regarding U.S. bases or if the Yemeni scholars will escalate their condemnation through further public mobilizations. The situation continues to evolve as both sides seek to shape the international narrative surrounding the safety of the holy cities.