New Delhi: Indian officials have confirmed that ongoing tensions in West Asia will not affect the upcoming Haj pilgrimage. Authorities stated that preparations are complete and pilgrim movement will proceed as scheduled.
The first batch of pilgrims is set to depart from April 18 across various embarkation points in India. Officials expect around 1.75 lakh pilgrims to travel to Saudi Arabia during the season, which will continue until the end of May.
Aseem Mahajan, Additional Secretary for Gulf affairs, said Indian missions in Riyadh and Jeddah have coordinated closely with the Ministry of Minority Affairs and Saudi authorities. He confirmed that systems are in place to receive and manage pilgrims.
Recent conflict involving the United States and Iran had raised concerns about safety in the region. The situation escalated in March after Iran carried out strikes on U.S. bases and industrial sites, including locations in Saudi Arabia. These developments created uncertainty about security arrangements for the pilgrimage.
Officials clarified that pilgrims will arrive in Jeddah, located on the western coast of Saudi Arabia. This region has not been directly affected by recent hostilities. Authorities expressed confidence that travel routes and key pilgrimage sites remain secure.
An incident near Yanbu on March 18 involved projectiles striking an energy facility linked to Saudi Aramco and ExxonMobil. Despite this, officials indicated that Saudi Arabia has adjusted logistics and continues to ensure stability in the western region.
Government agencies have maintained coordination to support safe travel and accommodation for pilgrims throughout the season.
