Middle East Tensions Rise Following US-Israel Attack on Iran; Ministry of Hajj: 6,047 Umrah Pilgrims Have Returned to Indonesia
Jakarta – The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has confirmed that 6,047 umrah pilgrims have safely returned to Indonesia following the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East region.
“From February 28 to March 1, 2026, a total of 6,047 pilgrims have returned to Indonesia safely. The government continues to oversee this process to ensure all pilgrims return home in an orderly and phased manner,” said Ministry Spokesperson Ichsan Marsha in Jakarta on Monday.
Marsha stated that the government is continuously monitoring the security situation in the Middle East and is focused on the safety, security, and protection of umrah pilgrims.
The government is ensuring that all handling processes are conducted in a measured, coordinated manner and prioritise safety.
Ichsan revealed that on Saturday, February 28, 2026, 4,200 umrah pilgrims returned to Indonesia on 12 flights. On Sunday, March 1, 2026, an additional 2,047 pilgrims returned home on five flights.
Regarding prospective umrah pilgrims scheduled to depart before the hajj season on April 18, 2026, there are 43,363 persons registered from 439 Umrah Travel Organisers (PPIU).
According to reports submitted through the Computerised System for Managing Umrah and Special Hajj (Siskopatuh) as of March 1, approximately 58,873 Indonesian umrah participants remain in Saudi Arabia.
“We ensure that every PPIU fully carries out its obligations, from the departure of pilgrims, their service whilst in Saudi Arabia, to their return. This responsibility must not be neglected,” said Ichsan.
The government has also requested that communication between PPIU and pilgrims be maintained effectively.
“We urge pilgrims and PPIU to develop mutual understanding. The priority is ensuring all pilgrims remain safe, well-served, and assured,” he said.
Regarding protection, the government has affirmed that the state is present. Pilgrims experiencing protection difficulties, legal issues, or emergency situations in Saudi Arabia or transit countries are urged to immediately contact the Indonesian Embassy or Indonesian General Consulate in their respective locations.
“Together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we continue to coordinate with Indonesian representatives abroad to ensure that every pilgrim issue is handled promptly and properly. We urge all pilgrims to remain calm and follow official guidance,” said Ichsan.