Saudi cabinet accuses Iran of politicizing Hajj

 The Saudi Cabinet reiterated on Monday that Iran was responsible for preventing its citizens from taking part in Hajj this year.

A statement issued by the official Saudi Press Agency said that the cabinet stressed that Riyadh rejects “Iranian attempts to put obstacles to prevent the arrival of Iranian pilgrims,” saying Tehran aims to “politicize Hajj rites and exploit them” to harm Saudi Arabia.

It added that the Cabinet renewed Riyadh’s confirmation about “its duties and responsibilities towards the service of the guests of the Grand Holy Mosque," Asharq Al Awsat reported.

The Cabinet said Saudi Arabia “welcomes and is honored in serving pilgrims, Umrah performers and visitors of all nationalities and it does not prevent any Muslim from coming to the holy lands.”

The statement said “the decision to prevent Iranian citizens from coming to perform Hajj rites was due to Iranian officials who will be responsible in front of Allah Almighty and the entire world.”

The Cabinet session was chaired by The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

Last Thursday, Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Ministry said the kingdom ensured Iranian officials obtained visas to meet with Saudi officials in April to discuss arrangements for this year’s Hajj.

Source ; MENA