The denial follows several hours of confusion as viral videos showed authorities detaining a man wearing a vest near the mosque's King Abdulaziz Gate. While some sources initially claimed the footage was from a 2017 attempt to burn the shrine, the Faytuks Network asserted the video was current and occurred 230 meters away from the 2017 site. Early unconfirmed reports had suggested a suspect attempted to detonate a device before being seized by security.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
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Saudi Arabia Denies Reported Mecca Suicide Bombing Attempt
World19 days ago
Security officials in Makkah apprehended a man for harassing pedestrians and inducing panic on Oct 1, dismissing reports that they had thwarted an explosive attack. Saudi authorities confirmed there is no truth to claims of a suicide bombing near the Kaaba and stated the individual, who caused fear among pilgrims, was dealt with immediately by security forces.
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