Jakarta. The Hajj and Umrah Ministry has urged families of Indonesian pilgrims to remain calm as tensions escalate in the Middle East following large-scale Israeli and US military strikes on Iran.

Flights to and from Saudi Arabia have been affected by the deteriorating security situation in the region. Several airlines have rerouted or delayed services as a precaution, disrupting the departure and return schedules of Indonesian umrah pilgrims.

The impact is being felt both by pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia and by those still in Indonesia awaiting departure.

According to data from the government’s Umrah and Special Hajj Management Computerized System (Siskopatuh), about 58,873 Indonesian umrah pilgrims are currently in Saudi Arabia.

Puji Raharjo, director general for hajj and umrah management at the ministry, said the government — through the ministry, Indonesian representatives abroad and relevant authorities — is closely monitoring developments and coordinating efforts to ensure pilgrims remain safe and properly served.

“We urge all umrah pilgrims not to panic. Remain calm and continue coordinating with your respective licensed umrah travel operators to obtain official and up-to-date information,” Puji said in Jakarta on Saturday.

He stressed that the state is present to provide protection and assistance in accordance with applicable regulations and that families should not be swayed by unverified information circulating online.

Pilgrims and their families are advised to maintain communication through their registered Umrah Travel Organizers (PPIU) to ensure that updates come from official and accountable sources.

The ministry said it continues to coordinate with agencies at home and in Saudi Arabia to ensure the safety and security of Indonesian pilgrims remain the top priority.

Authorities also urged the public not to spread unverified information that could trigger panic. The government is committed to providing maximum protection and ensuring any policy adjustments prioritize the safety, security, and comfort of pilgrims, the ministry said.

The advisory comes after Israel and the United States launched major airstrikes on several Iranian cities on Saturday, reportedly killing dozens and damaging key facilities. Iran retaliated by targeting US military assets in several Gulf countries, with missiles reportedly striking sites in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates.

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