#Iran #SaudiArabia #ReligiousConflict
Tehran: The annual Haj pilgrimage for Muslim devotees to the holy site in Saudi Arabia has been marred by the recent arrest of a prominent Iranian religious leader, Ghulamreza Ghassimian. The Saudi government criticized a viral video in which Ghassimian was seen making controversial remarks, leading to his arrest on Monday.
According to the Iranian ISNA news agency, officials confirmed that Ghassimian has been released. Following a meeting with Iranian authorities, he is expected to travel back to Iran. In the video, Ghassimian, dressed in white religious attire, accused Saudi leaders of turning the Kaaba into a place for “gambling, immoral behavior, and indecent concerts.”
Ramesh Khatri, a representative of Kansai Nepal News, expressed concern over the implications of Ghassimian’s arrest amid tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia following a mediation agreement in 2023. This agreement was aimed at resolving conflicts in the Middle East region.
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has implemented social reforms in recent years, but Ghassimian’s satirical expressions during his visit were deemed offensive. Riyadh has not confirmed Ghassimian’s arrest, while Tehran has raised concerns about the impact of recent tensions on Middle Eastern relations.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted a message on Tuesday stressing Iran’s commitment to Muslim unity in the spiritual environment of the Haj pilgrimage. He emphasized the need to avoid exacerbating divisions between Iran and Saudi Arabia, calling for diplomatic solutions.
Asghar Jahangir, a spokesman for the Iranian judiciary, previously stated that Ghassimian’s arrest was deemed “inappropriate and unlawful.” The incident highlights the delicate religious and political dynamics between Iran and Saudi Arabia, prompting international observers to monitor the situation closely.
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Author: MAYA | HARUTO
Posted at: May 30, 2025 12:01 am
