Posted on 03/04/2020 9:29:13 AM PST by Olog-hai
The coronavirus outbreak disrupted Islamic worship in the Middle East as Saudi Arabia on Wednesday banned its citizens and other residents of the kingdom from performing the pilgrimage in Mecca, while Iran canceled Friday prayers in major cities.
The decisions in Riyadh and Tehran affected both Sunni and Shiite Muslims alike.
The Saudi move expands a ban last week on foreigners visiting Mecca and Medina, home to the holiest sites in Islam. That decision alone disrupted travel for thousands of Muslims already headed to the kingdom and potentially affects plans later this year for millions more ahead of the fasting month of Ramadan and the annual hajj pilgrimage. [ ]
It remains unclear how the ban will be enforced. The government described the suspension as temporary, but gave no hint at when it will be lifted. The ban also appeared to encompass the Prophet Muhammads Mosque in nearby Medina.
The decision seeks to limit the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic and prevent its access to the Two Holy Mosques, which are witnessing a permanent and intense flow of human crowds, which makes the issue of securing these crowds of utmost importance, the Saudi government said.
(Excerpt) Read more at apnews.com ...
Proof imans and jihadists are smarter than lib Austin that’s not shutting down SXSW.
Can they still lick Mosques? Asking for a friend.
consuming camel urine is still OK, in fact, its encouraged for all its healthful properties.
Allah not protecting his minions?
freedom of religion... Rage on the Hajj...
kiss the stone, kiss each other, all in the name of allah sneeze ball.
Horse has “left the barn” in Iran
Friend is obviously muslim. Tell him to go for it.
The barn will burn to the ground after SXSW.
Yep, they should have canceled prayers a month ago.
Proof imans and jihadists are smarter than lib Austin thats not shutting down SXSW”””
Major sponsors are already pulling out, tho.
Dang! Now what do I do with these airline tickets, hotel, and camel reservations?
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