DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — A senior Saudi official urged more than 1 million Muslims intending to perform the hajj to delay making plans this year in comments suggesting the pilgrimage could be cancelled due to the new coronavirus pandemic. Restrictions have tightened in the kingdom as it grapples with over 1,500 confirmed cases of the new virus. The Middle East has more than 71,000 confirmed cases of the virus, most of those in Iran, and over 3,300 deaths. “The kingdom of Saudi Arabia is prepared to secure the safety of all Muslims and nationals,” Saudi Hajj and Umrah Minister Muhammad Saleh bin Taher Banten told state television. “That's why we have requested from all Muslims around the world to hold onto signing any agreements (with tour operators) until we have a clear vision.”

Source: International New York Times April 01, 2020 06:17 UTC