Islamabad, June 14, 2025: King Salman on Friday declared stranded Iranian Hajj pilgrims as “Royal Guest” and directed Saudi officials to make sure that pilgrims stuck in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are given all essential assistance until it becomes safe for them to head back to their country.
The instruction was issued soon after Israeli forces carried out missile attacks on Iran, claiming the strikes were aimed at atomic facilities, nuclear experts, and senior military officials. In response, Tehran shut down its airspace.
The proposal to extend support to the stranded Iranian pilgrims was submitted to the King Salman by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as per the Saudi Press Agency. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has been assigned the responsibility of making certain that all needed help is provided.
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The yearly pilgrimage, an essential pillar of Islam that every Muslim must perform at least once in their life if able physically and financially, ended on Monday. Each year, tens of thousands of Iranians travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj. This year, over 1.6 million worshippers from across the globe took part, and officials declared the event a success.
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Iran responded to the Israeli assault later on Friday by launching missiles at Tel Aviv, increasing concerns of an extended and more severe military conflict.
