Indonesian DPR Opens Chance to Hold Emergency Meeting on Hajj as Middle East Tensions Escalate

Commission VIII of the Indonesian DPR is considering holding an emergency meeting during the members’ recess to discuss Hajj preparations in light of the escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Chairman Marwan Dasopang said the meeting could be held before the DPR returns to session on 9 March, and would also address the situation of Umrah pilgrims currently stranded. “If necessary, we will speak with the minister about what steps have already been taken, including regarding Hajj,” Marwan said at the parliamentary complex on Wednesday (4 March). According to Marwan, the government, through the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, must promptly take anticipatory measures in response to the Middle East situation. He explained that although a number of airlines are still flying to Saudi Arabia, the situation could change, potentially leaving pilgrims stranded if conditions worsen. That is the situation currently affecting thousands of Umrah pilgrims and is under investigation. “Even if flights resume now, perhaps they did not fly two days ago but they are flying now,” he said. However, Marwan warned that delays to Hajj or Umrah would have various impacts to be dealt with, since accommodation costs, hotel bookings, and logistics have already been paid for and could be forfeited. “We have already paid for this—hotels paid for, flights paid for—but there is still concern along the journey, because the route passes through an area of escalation,” he said. Marwan added that they will seek explanations from the government about communications with the Saudi authorities, including whether steps have been taken with service providers such as airlines and hotels, and whether postponement is possible.