Oman Condemns Attacks on Makkah, Backs Saudi Security

The Sultanate of Oman has strongly condemned and denounced the criminal and treacherous attacks targeting Makkah, reaffirming its absolute rejection of any violation of the sanctity of the holy sites or any threat to the safety of Umrah performers. In a statement issued by the Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, as reported by the Oman News Agency (ONA), Oman also expressed its solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and support for the measures taken by the Kingdom to protect its security, stability, and sovereignty.

Context and Background

The condemnation comes amid ongoing regional tensions and highlights the unwavering commitment of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states to safeguarding the holy sites in Saudi Arabia. Makkah, home to the Grand Mosque and the Kaaba, is the holiest site in Islam and hosts millions of Umrah performers and Hajj pilgrims annually. Any threat to the safety of these worshippers is viewed as a grave violation of Islamic sanctity and international norms.

Oman’s prompt response underscores the deep fraternal ties between the Sultanate and the Kingdom, both of which are founding members of the GCC. The statement aligns with the larger regional consensus that the security of the holy sites is a collective responsibility and that any attack on them is an attack on all Muslims. This position has been consistently upheld by Saudi Arabia’s leadership, which has invested heavily in modernizing and securing pilgrimage infrastructure under Vision 2030.

Key Details

In its official statement, the Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed its strong condemnation of what it described as “criminal and treacherous attacks” targeting Makkah. The ministry stressed Oman’s absolute rejection of any violation of the sanctity of the holy sites or any threat to the safety of Umrah performers. Furthermore, Oman expressed its full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and support for the measures taken by the Kingdom to protect its security, stability, and sovereignty.

The statement was carried by the Oman News Agency (ONA) and later distributed by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). This rapid dissemination reflects the importance both nations place on transparent communication and collective security. The Omani government’s position is consistent with its longstanding policy of supporting Saudi Arabia’s role as the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and ensuring the safety of all pilgrims.

Implications and Impact

Oman’s condemnation carries significant diplomatic weight, as it reinforces the unified stance of Gulf nations against any threats to Saudi Arabia’s security. It also sends a clear message to any potential aggressors that the international community, particularly within the Muslim world, stands firmly with the Kingdom in protecting the holy sites. This solidarity is crucial for maintaining regional stability and ensuring that pilgrimage activities continue uninterrupted.

Moreover, the statement highlights the effectiveness of Saudi Arabia’s security measures and its proactive approach to countering threats. By supporting these measures, Oman acknowledges the Kingdom’s successful efforts in safeguarding millions of worshippers. This backing also strengthens the broader cooperation among GCC states in intelligence sharing and counterterrorism, which is vital for the region’s overall security architecture.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 places great emphasis on enhancing the pilgrimage experience and ensuring the safety and well-being of all visitors to the holy sites. The Kingdom has invested billions in expanding the Grand Mosque, improving transportation networks, and implementing advanced security technologies. Oman’s support for these measures aligns with the shared goal of fostering a secure and spiritually enriching environment for Umrah performers and Hajj pilgrims.

As Saudi Arabia continues to lead in regional security and economic diversification, partnerships with neighboring countries like Oman are essential. The mutual commitment to protecting the sanctity of Makkah and ensuring the success of Vision 2030’s pilgrimage-related projects demonstrates the strength of Gulf unity and the shared values that bind the region together. This cooperation will undoubtedly contribute to a more stable and prosperous future for all.

20 Questions

Q1. What did Oman condemn regarding Makkah?

A1. Oman strongly condemned the criminal and treacherous attacks targeting Makkah, rejecting any violation of the sanctity of the holy sites or threats to Umrah performers’ safety, as stated by the Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Q2. When was the Omani statement issued?

A2. The statement was issued on Thursday, as reported by the Oman News Agency (ONA), and later distributed by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) on September 17, 2026.

Q3. Which Omani body issued the condemnation?

A3. The Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued the condemnation, expressing Oman’s official position against the attacks and reaffirming solidarity with Saudi Arabia.

Q4. What did Oman express solidarity with?

A4. Oman expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and support for the measures taken by the Kingdom to protect its security, stability, and sovereignty.

Q5. Why is Makkah significant in this context?

A5. Makkah is the holiest site in Islam, home to the Kaaba and the Grand Mosque, hosting millions of Umrah performers and Hajj pilgrims annually, making its security a top priority for Saudi Arabia and the wider Muslim world.

Q6. How did Oman’s statement reflect GCC unity?

A6. Oman’s condemnation reinforces the unified stance of Gulf Cooperation Council states in safeguarding the holy sites and supporting Saudi Arabia’s security measures, demonstrating regional solidarity.

Q7. What measures did Saudi Arabia take that Oman supported?

A7. Oman supported Saudi Arabia’s measures to protect its security, stability, and sovereignty, which include advanced security protocols and infrastructure improvements to ensure pilgrim safety.

Q8. Which news agencies reported the statement?

A8. The Oman News Agency (ONA) initially reported the statement, and the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) later distributed it, ensuring wide dissemination.

Q9. What is the significance of Oman’s rejection of violations?

A9. Oman’s absolute rejection of any violation of the sanctity of the holy sites underscores its commitment to Islamic values and international norms, reinforcing the collective responsibility to protect Makkah.

Q10. How does this condemnation impact regional stability?

A10. It strengthens regional stability by showcasing Gulf unity against threats, deterring potential aggressors, and supporting Saudi Arabia’s role as Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.

Q11. What role does the GCC play in this context?

A11. The GCC fosters cooperation among member states, including intelligence sharing and counterterrorism efforts, to ensure the security of holy sites and the region as a whole.

Q12. How does this align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A12. Vision 2030 prioritizes enhancing pilgrimage experiences and safety, with investments in infrastructure and security, aligning with Oman’s support for measures that ensure a secure environment for worshippers.

Q13. What are the implications for Umrah performers?

A13. The condemnation and support for Saudi measures reassure Umrah performers of their safety, allowing them to focus on their spiritual journey without fear of threats.

Q14. How does Oman’s stance reflect its foreign policy?

A14. Oman’s stance reflects its consistent foreign policy of supporting Saudi Arabia and upholding Islamic solidarity, promoting peace and stability in the region.

Q15. What specific threats were mentioned?

A15. The statement referred to criminal and treacherous attacks targeting Makkah, though specific details of the threats were not disclosed in the official condemnation.

Q16. How does this affect Saudi-Omani relations?

A16. It strengthens bilateral relations by demonstrating mutual trust and cooperation on security matters, further solidifying the fraternal ties between the two nations.

Q17. What is the expected outcome of this condemnation?

A17. The condemnation is expected to deter future threats, reinforce international support for Saudi Arabia’s security efforts, and enhance cooperation among Gulf states.

Q18. How does Saudi Arabia ensure the safety of holy sites?

A18. Saudi Arabia employs advanced security technologies, trained personnel, and comprehensive strategies to protect the holy sites, ensuring the safety of millions of pilgrims.

Q19. Why is Oman’s support important for Saudi Arabia?

A19. Oman’s support is important as it adds diplomatic weight to Saudi Arabia’s efforts, showcasing regional consensus and isolating potential threats through collective action.

Q20. What does this mean for future pilgrimage seasons?

A20. It ensures that future pilgrimage seasons will continue smoothly with enhanced security, as regional support bolsters Saudi Arabia’s ability to protect worshippers and maintain the sanctity of Makkah.

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