Middle East Tensions Rise; Ministry of Hajj Prioritises Safety of Indonesian Umrah Pilgrims in Saudi Arabia

JAKARTA — Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has confirmed it is prioritising the safety of Indonesian umrah pilgrims in Saudi Arabia following heightened tensions in the Middle East.

The situation in the Middle East has intensified following attacks by the United States and Israel against Iran.

According to data from the Computerised System for Umrah and Special Hajj Management (SISKOPATUH), approximately 58,873 Indonesian umrah pilgrims are currently in Saudi Arabia.

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, continues to monitor developments in the Middle East region through intensive coordination with local representatives and authorities.

A ministry official appealed to Indonesian pilgrims to remain calm and continue coordinating with their respective Umrah Travel Organisers (PPIU) to obtain official and up-to-date information.

“We urge all umrah pilgrims not to panic. Remain calm and continue coordinating with your respective Umrah Travel Organisers (PPIU) to receive official and current information,” the official stated.

The government has committed to protecting all pilgrims and ensuring that any policy adjustments consider aspects of safety, security and comfort.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah also urged families of pilgrims in Indonesia to remain calm regarding relatives performing umrah in Saudi Arabia.

US President Donald Trump has affirmed that he will respond to the deaths of US military personnel and stated that the conflict with Iran could potentially last for weeks.

A joint statement issued by the US State Department with Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates characterised the actions as reckless and destabilising behaviour.