The Saudi Arabian National Guard, along with other security forces, successfully ended the 1979 seizure of the Kaaba, the holiest site in Islam, by a group of militants led by Juhayman al-Otaybi.
The siege lasted for two weeks, during which the militants held hostages and demanded political reforms. The Saudi government launched a military operation to retake control of the Grand Mosque, which resulted in heavy casualties on both sides.
Key Facts:
- Date: November 20, 1979 – December 4, 1979
- Location: Grand Mosque, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
- Group: Led by Juhayman al-Otaybi, claiming to be the Mahdi (guided one)
- Demand: Political reforms and the overthrow of the Saudi government
- Outcome: The Saudi government regained control of the Kaaba.
- Casualties: Hundreds of militants, hostages, and Saudi security personnel were killed.
Aftermath:
The seizure of the Kaaba had a significant impact on Saudi Arabia and the Muslim world. It led to increased security measures around the Grand Mosque and other holy sites. The incident also raised concerns about the potential for Islamic extremism and the role of the Saudi government in the region.
The Saudi government's response to the crisis was widely criticized, with some accusing them of using excessive force. The incident also highlighted the vulnerability of holy sites to attacks and the need for greater security measures.
