Saudi Denies Issues of Hajj Ban for Palestinians

Jakarta, MINA – The Saudi Arabian government through its embassy in Jakarta has firmly denied the prohibition of Palestinians to perform the Hajj and Umrah services.

The statement was conveyed by the Saudi Ambassador  in Jakarta, Osama bin Mohammed during a friendly visit to the PP Muhammadiyah Office in Jakarta, Tuesday (13/10).

“This news is incorrect and there is no validity. Taken from an invalid source, “he said at the media meeting after the visit.

Ambassador Osama explained, the pilgrimage quota formulation for Islamic countries in accordance with the population was divided by one thousand.

“Palestine gets a hajj quota of around 7,000 worshipers from a total population of around 7 million. As many as 1,000 Palestinian pilgrims are funded directly from King Salman (honorary guest), “he explained.

Ambassador Osama asked both the media and the public not to directly accept outstanding issues and to verify first and foremost valid sources.

“I say again, that the news is not true. Lie. Because it comes from (media) Israel and Britain, “he said again.

The response was expressed by Osama following information related to Saudi steps that no longer allow Palestinians in Jordan, Lebanon, Israel and East Jerusalem to enter their country using temporary passports from Jordan or Lebanon.

The information was first reported by the Middle East Eye which is a UK-based media and Israeli-based media Haarezt.  (TL/Sj/RS5)

Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)