Grand Mosque Imam Issues Warning Against Suicide Attempts, Commends Security Efforts

Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais, the Imam of the Grand Mosque and head of religious affairs at both the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque, has issued a stern warning regarding suicide attempts within the Grand Mosque. He emphasized that such actions are considered suicide, which is prohibited in Islam and contradicts its teachings that advocate for the preservation of life.

This statement followed an incident in which a security officer successfully intervened to save a Pakistani pilgrim who had attempted suicide inside the mosque. Al-Sudais underscored the importance of adhering to the mosque's regulations and maintaining its sanctity through worship and obedience.

He referenced religious texts that clearly prohibit suicide, citing Quranic verses and prophetic traditions that affirm the sanctity of human life and the duty to protect it.

Al-Sudais also commended the alertness of security personnel, acknowledging their ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of visitors to the two holy mosques. He noted that their commitment to their responsibilities reflects positively on Saudi security forces.

While incidents of suicide within the Grand Mosque are exceedingly rare, they tend to attract significant media and social media attention due to the mosque's revered status among Muslims globally.