RIYADH: King Salman on Monday rejected any suggestions that Saudi Arabia should give up its role as the organiser of Haj following last month’s deadly stampede in Mina. “The irresponsible statements aiming for political exploitation of the incident... shall not affect the role of Saudi Arabia, its duty and responsibilities in serving the guests of God,” said the Saudi monarch.

Saudi Arabia had deployed “all its capabilities and efforts... to provide the guests of God with comfort, security and safety”, King Salman said in a statement carried by SPA state news agency.

The organisation of the Haj and its response to the disaster provoked foreign criticism, mainly from Iran.

An Iranian cleric has suggested that Haj be managed by other Islamic states.At least 464 Iranians were among 1,587 pilgrims killed in the stampede, according to figures given by foreign officials. “Saudi Arabia is incapable of organising Haj,” said Ayatollah Mohammad Emami Kashani.

Saudi Arabia has yet to provide an updated death toll. It said two days after the stampede that 769 pilgrims had died. Saudi authorities have also not provided a breakdown by nationality.

Days before Haj, a construction crane collapsed at Makkah’s Grand Mosque, killing 109 people, including many foreigners.

King Salman ordered last month “a revision” of how the Haj is organised.

Published in Dawn, October 13th , 2015

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