Saudi Arabia Welcomes Palestinian Guests for Pilgrimage
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call, and Guidance has officially welcomed the first batch of pilgrims participating in the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visits. This program, dedicated to the families of martyrs, prisoners, and the injured from the Palestinian community, is set to host 500 pilgrims from the West Bank for this year’s Hajj season.
His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may Allah protect him, has generously instructed the special invitation of 1,000 pilgrims comprising family members of Palestinians who have sacrificed their lives, been imprisoned, or injured. This initiative not only underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause but also reflects the nation’s dedication to fostering Islamic brotherhood and solidarity among Muslim communities worldwide.
To facilitate this initiative, the Ministry has organized extensive logistics through operational committees that cater to the needs of the guests from the moment they arrive in the Kingdom. These committees ensure seamless transportation to their designated accommodations in Mecca, overseeing their movement and ensuring that their every requirement is met. Such comprehensive arrangements are designed to allow the pilgrims to perform their rituals within an atmosphere of tranquility and comfort.
The initial group of pilgrims embarked from Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan, with Mr. Mohammed bin Hassan Mounis, the chargé d’affaires at the Saudi Embassy in Jordan, present to bid them farewell. Additionally, a second group of 500 pilgrims is scheduled to depart later from the Arab Republic of Egypt.
In a statement, Dr. Abdul-Latif bin Abdulaziz Al Sheikh, the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call, and Guidance, and the program’s supervisor, expressed his profound gratitude to His Majesty the King and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince for their benevolent directive. He emphasized that this initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s longstanding, honorable stance in support of the Palestinian cause, binds Islamic communities together, and enhances communication between them.
The ministry has put into motion a comprehensive operational plan aimed at serving the Palestinian pilgrims throughout their stay in Mecca and Medina. This plan encompasses thorough logistical support and concludes with arrangements for their return home after the completion of Hajj rituals. Fourteen specialized committees work tirelessly around the clock to provide assistance, and the ministry has also planned enriching programs, including field visits to significant historical and cultural landmarks.
This generous gesture not only provides an opportunity for these pilgrims to fulfill one of the fundamental pillars of Islam but also reinforces the Kingdom’s role as a vital supporter of Muslim communities around the globe, particularly those facing hardships.
As the pilgrimage season approaches, the ongoing efforts of the Saudi authorities to ensure the comfort and well-being of the pilgrims reflect both their commitment to religious obligations and their sensitivity towards the socio-political realities faced by the Palestinian populace. This initiative is emblematic of a broader commitment by Saudi Arabia to uphold Islamic unity and humanitarian assistance, inviting Muslims from all walks of life to partake in the spiritual journey that is so central to their faith.
With the pilgrimage serving as a time for reflection and devotion, the Kingdom’s initiative stands out as a beacon of hope, offering a rare moment of peace and celebration for those affected by conflict and strife. As the program unfolds, it embodies the spirit of compassion and collective responsibility that characterizes the Islamic faith, further solidifying the bonds of fraternity among Muslims worldwide.
