Saudi Arabia Requests Delay of US Strikes on Iran During Hajj to Avoid Travel Disruptions
Saudi Arabia urges Trump to delay Iran strikes until Hajj pilgrimage concludes to prevent travel chaos

Image: Firstpost
Saudi Arabia has urged US President Donald Trump to postpone any military action against Iran until after the Hajj pilgrimage, which began on May 24. The Gulf nations fear that renewed hostilities could trap over 1.5 million pilgrims and disrupt major regional airports.
- 01Gulf leaders, including those from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, warned that military strikes could create a humanitarian crisis for Hajj pilgrims.
- 02The ongoing Hajj pilgrimage involves over 1.5 million international Muslim pilgrims in Mecca.
- 03Previous US-Israel strikes on Iran in February caused significant disruptions to commercial aviation in the region.
- 04Trump has temporarily halted military plans, known as 'Operation Sledgehammer,' to allow for diplomatic negotiations with Iran.
- 05The Pentagon has strike plans ready, but the focus remains on maintaining peace during the Hajj period.
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Saudi Arabia, representing a coalition of Gulf Arab nations, has made an urgent appeal to US President Donald Trump to delay military strikes against Iran until after the Hajj pilgrimage, which started on May 24. Officials warn that renewed conflict could lead to a humanitarian crisis, potentially stranding over 1.5 million pilgrims in the region. The request follows a fragile ceasefire, with Trump having previously postponed a significant military action against Iran after discussions with Gulf leaders. Past US-Israel strikes on Iran had already disrupted commercial aviation, leading to extensive flight cancellations and airspace closures. Gulf officials stress that renewed hostilities during the Hajj could paralyze key airports in Doha, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi, which are crucial for international pilgrims returning home. Currently, Trump has paused military operations, provisionally codenamed 'Operation Sledgehammer,' to explore diplomatic avenues, while tensions remain high over Iran's uranium stockpiles.
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A military strike during the Hajj could result in significant logistical challenges and humanitarian issues for millions of pilgrims.
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