Middle East is heating up, the government ensures that the Hajj preparations continue to run

Illustration of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - The government through the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) ensures that the 1447 H/2026 M Hajj pilgrimage will continue, following the increased tensions in the Middle East region.

The Ministry of Religion said that, until now, there has been no impact on the ongoing preparations. All stages of planning and coordination continue according to schedule.

"We hope that the situation will soon be normal and all parties can refrain. The government will continue to monitor developments and take the necessary steps for the safety and comfort of pilgrims," said Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah (Wamenhaj) Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, in his statement, Sunday, March 1.

However, specifically for the implementation of the umrah, the Ministry of Religion appeals to umrah pilgrims who are scheduled to depart in the near future to postpone their departure until conditions are conducive again.

Dahnil Anzar emphasized that this step is a form of government caution in ensuring the safety of citizens.

"Considering the uncertain conditions in the Middle East and the escalating escalation, we urge umrah pilgrims who will depart in the near future to postpone their departure," said the wamenhaj.

The government also asked all umrah pilgrims who are currently in Saudi Arabia and their families in the country to remain calm and not panic. The Ministry of Religion together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia continues to coordinate with the Saudi authorities, airlines, and umrah pilgrimage travel organizers (PPIU) to ensure that pilgrims who experience delays in returning can be handled properly.

"We continue to coordinate with the Saudi Arabian side, the airline, and PPIU so that the pilgrims who are delayed in their return can be accommodated in hotels and other safe and decent places," said Daniel.