Okaz/Saudi Gazette

MADINAH — The Agency for the Affairs of the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah stated that the entry of two non-Muslim women in the courtyards of the Prophet’s Mosque, wearing clothing that was inappropriate for the sanctity of the place, was by mistake.

The agency’s clarification came in response to what was circulated on social media about the incident on Tuesday, Feb. 7. “The women were convinced about the specialty and sanctity of the Prophet’s Mosque after explaining to them about it and enlightening them about the lofty message of the Prophet’s Mosque. They disclosed their understanding of the instructions given to them by the presidency staff and expressed their thanks and appreciation of the good treatment that they had received,” the agency said in a statement.

The agency also underscored the need to further enhance the means and procedures of awareness and guidance, focusing on the sanctity and specialty of the holy place, so as to avoid a recurrence of such incidents in the future.