Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Why Ibn Saud Did Not Enter Mecca; Indian Moslems Urge Union of Arab Countries Against Foreign Powers

October 6, 1924
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

The explanation of why the victorious Ibn Saud, Sultan of Nejd, although within the sacred territory of Mecca, hesitated to enter the Holy City, is to be found in the attitude of the Moslems of India towards the entire struggle and chaos now prevailing in the Arabic countries.

It is stated here that Ibn Saud started his war operations against the Kingdom of Hedjaz with the financial and moral support of the Indian Moslem League. At the beginning of September, the Indian Mcslem League forwarded a memorandum to King Hussein, asking him to conclude an offensive and defensive agreement with the other emirs and rulers of the Arabian Penninsula for the purpose of creating an Arab Union against the foreign powers. Should the King refuse this demand, the invasion of his country would be an absolute Moslem necessity, it was stated in the memorandum.

It was further made known that the Government of Nejd accepted the assistance of Arab notables who came from Syria, Egypt, Iraq and Palestine, Ibn Saud, before starting his march on Hedjaz, pledged himself to refrain from attacking Mecca until all Moslems consented to this action. Ibn Saud further expressed his readiness to take part in the proposed All-Islamic Congress where the Caliphate question will be decided, side by side with other Arab princes.

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement