RIAYDH: In a commendable humanitarian gesture rooted in Islamic brotherhood, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia, has announced full protection, care, and hospitality for all Iranian pilgrims currently present in the Kingdom. This decision comes in light of the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel.
King Salman issued clear instructions to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and all relevant authorities, emphasizing that until the situation in Iran stabilizes, Iranian pilgrims will be treated as honoured guests. He stated that ensuring their safety and well-being is not only a religious obligation but also a moral duty for the Kingdom.
The announcement comes at a time when the regional situation is highly volatile. With Iranian airspace currently closed due to conflict, thousands of Iranian pilgrims have been unable to return home after completing their pilgrimage. This year, nearly 1.6 million Muslims performed Hajj, among whom a large number were from Iran. Saudi Arabia’s initiative has been widely seen as a strong expression of Islamic solidarity and a reflection of humanitarian values.
Tensions escalated significantly last Friday when Israel launched airstrikes on several key locations in Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, military installations, and other strategic sites. These attacks resulted in the deaths of 86 individuals, including six Iranian scientists. In retaliation, Iran initiated “Operation Truthful Promise III,” during which over 150 missiles were fired at Israel within the span of one hour.
Against this backdrop of rising conflict, Saudi Arabia’s decision has drawn international praise. It is being recognized as a powerful message of peace, unity, and compassion. At a time when global divisions and unrest are intensifying, King Salman’s declaration stands out as a reaffirmation of the values of harmony and brotherhood that lie at the heart of the Islamic faith.
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