Riyadh: A group of prominent Shiite shaikhs and scholars in the Kingdom vowed their loyalty to the nation and government, following Tuesday's riots that erupted in the Shiite dominated Eastern province of Saudi Arabia.
Shaikh Mohammad Al Jeerani, a judge in the eastern region, said: "I denounce the criminal acts perpetrated by some ignorant people against our beloved nation. They represent no school of thought, religion or humanity. On the other hand, they represent only ignorance and darkness. We vow loyalty to our wise leadership."
Shaikh Mansour Al Salman, another Shiite scholar, asserted that they would strive to protect the Kingdom from sectarian violence. He urged the young men to shoulder their responsibility in protecting the Kingdom's sovereignty and not to engage in any acts that undermine its security and stability.
Saudi security forces succeeded in putting an end to the riots that erupted in Awamiya city in the eastern region of Qatif.
"The situation is now under full control of the forces," said a security source. At least 14 people, including nine policemen, were injured in the violence that broke out in the Shiite-majority region.
Nine policemen were shot and wounded and two hurt by petrol bombs when they came to disperse the crowd according to a ministry statement. Three civilians including two women were also injured. Speaking to Gulf News, a security source, who requested anonymity, said that the security forces have managed to bring the situation under total control within hours after it erupted. "Most of the troublemakers have been detained.
Those who instigated riots have been taken into custody during a massive raid conducted in the region," he said adding that most of those wounded in the violence were discharged from hospital after receiving treatment. Meanwhile, prominent Saudi political analysts pointed fingers of blame toward Iran for the Awamiya riots. Speaking to Gulf News, the analysts said it was a blatant attempt by Iran to instigate violence in the country.
"Those who try to hurt the country which hosts the two holy mosques are virtually waging a battle against the Muslim Ummah as a whole. All Muslim countries would stand by Saudi Arabia in confronting such a challenge," Prominent political analyst Dr. Sultan Al Saihani said.
"Saudi Arabia and other GCC states have the capability to confront sectarianism and racism with programs that are more reformative, developmental and cultural," Abdul Rahman Al Wabili, another political analyst said.