MAKKAH — Foreign pilgrims who have come to perform Umrah have denounced the terrorist attack near the Grand Mosque in Makkah and said it would not undermine the Kingdom's security and stability. They praised the government's services to the guests of God. "Saudi Arabia will continue to be a stable and secure country as it will receive Allah's help thanks to its great services to the millions of pilgrims who come for Haj and Umrah each year," said Ahmed Hussein, a pilgrim, while speaking to Al-Madina Arabic daily. "We have enjoyed the government's efforts to enable pilgrims perform their religious rituals with ease, security and tranquility. The nefarious terrorist attack that took place near the Grand Mosque did not affect our activities," Hussein said. "Everything was back to normal soon after the attack as if nothing had happened. We returned to our residences and hotels without any problem," he explained. Muhiyuddin Mohammed said he heard about the incident when his children contacted him to get reassured about his safety. "I told them that there was nothing to worry about," he told Al-Madina. "We have been enjoying great security since our arrival in the Kingdom," he added. Mohammed prayed for the security of Saudi Arabia, its people and leadership. "The criminal attack shows the hatred of those criminals toward Saudi Arabia. They have been brainwashed to carry out attacks on the Grand Mosque and pilgrims," he pointed out. Hussein Aalim said the criminals failed to achieve their malicious goal, which was to undermine the Kingdom's security and stability and terrorize pilgrims. "Saudi security forces have confronted the criminals professionally foiling their plans. The attack did not affect the movement of pilgrims inside and outside the Grand Mosque. Even most of the pilgrims who stayed in nearby hotels did not know about the incident. It shows the efficiency of Saudi police," he explained. Afdhal Barabishi described the terrorist attack as an act of cowardice. "Allah helped Saudi police to foil the attack in order to save His guests and protect His home," he said. The incident reflected the security forces' readiness to deal with any emergency situation with courage and professionalism, he added. Younus Mohammed thanked Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman for his government's efforts to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims. He denounced extremist organizations for their attempt to terrorize pilgrims at the holiest place of worship on the earth.
