US-Iran Conflict: National Hajj Commission Says 2026 Pilgrimage Requires Thorough Review
The National Hajj Commission has stated that the sustainability of the 2026 hajj pilgrimage amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East region is heavily dependent on Saudi Arabian government policy. Commission chair Mustolih Siradj said that the Middle Eastern conflict resulting from warfare between the United States and Israel against Iran affects regional security, including airspace for pilgrimage flights to Saudi Arabia.
“Security and airspace for flights are extremely crucial factors, given that the Indonesian hajj mission is the largest delegation with a quota of approximately 221,000 pilgrims,” said Mustolih on Friday, 13 March 2026.
He stated that the government must exercise caution in deciding on the departure of pilgrims this year. On one hand, pilgrim safety is the primary priority. However, unilateral cancellation of pilgrim departures could also potentially trigger widespread repercussions, including a growing backlog of hajj waiting lists.
Cancellation of pilgrim departures could also trigger administrative and financial problems. He noted that hajj administration costs already paid by pilgrims include various service components such as flights, accommodation, meals, transportation, and services in Mina and Arafat. Most of these contracts have been agreed with various parties, including private companies providing hajj services in Saudi Arabia.
Mustolih stated that the government must conduct a comprehensive review before making a decision. Such a review should involve various relevant institutions, including the People’s Representative Council, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and security and intelligence authorities to assess developments in the Middle East region, including monitoring steps taken by other pilgrimage-sending nations.
According to Mustolih, the most decisive factor remains Saudi Arabian government policy. If Saudi authorities decide to proceed with the hajj, Indonesia must ensure full security guarantees for hundreds of thousands of pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land.
“If the Saudi Arabian government declares the situation safe and the hajj will proceed, Indonesia must request full security guarantees for pilgrims,” he said.
He added that the sending of pilgrims from Indonesia has previously taken place amidst global conflict situations, including during World War I and II as well as the 1991 Gulf War. This precedent could serve as one consideration in determining the 2026 hajj pilgrimage arrangement.