TULUNGAGUNG – Hajj and Umrah departures from Tulungagung remain on schedule despite rising tensions in the Middle East. Local officials confirmed that travel plans to Saudi Arabia continue without disruption.

The tensions involve Iran, Israel, and the United States. The situation has raised concerns among prospective pilgrims and their families. Many have questioned whether flights to the Holy Land could face delays.

However, the Tulungagung Office of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Affairs (Kankemenhaj) said departures are still proceeding as planned. Officials continue to monitor regional developments closely.

Suryani, head of Kankemenhaj Tulungagung, said his office has strengthened coordination with Umrah travel organizers, known as Penyelenggara Perjalanan Ibadah Umrah (PPIU). Travel agencies must now confirm flight conditions directly with airlines before pilgrims leave for the airport.

“We continue to coordinate closely. Before pilgrims leave their homes, travel operators must confirm with airlines whether there are any disruptions. If conflict affects certain routes, we will delay departures temporarily for safety,” Suryani said.

He stressed that pilgrim safety remains the top priority. If the conflict escalates further, the central government can impose a mass postponement. Regional offices will follow a unified national policy.

Suryani recalled the Covid-19 pandemic as an important lesson. At that time, authorities delayed departures to protect pilgrims from greater risks. “If the central government decides to postpone, we will comply. But we hope tensions ease so worship can proceed smoothly,” he added.

At the local level, officials now focus on keeping pilgrims and their families calm. The office also monitors updated technical guidelines from the central ministry and the Saudi government.

Authorities maintain active communication with Indonesian representatives in Saudi Arabia. They coordinate with the Consulate General, the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI), and the Hajj Affairs Office to track developments in the Holy Land.

The central government has issued clear instructions to travel agencies. First, operators must delay departures if security conditions worsen. Second, pilgrims already in Saudi Arabia should remain calm and avoid misinformation.

“The Indonesian government continues to coordinate with our representatives in Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims do not need to panic,” Suryani said.

He emphasized that Jakarta holds full authority over strategic decisions. Meanwhile, his office ensures that travel agencies receive updates quickly. This approach allows any policy change to reach pilgrims without delay.

For now, Hajj and Umrah departures from Tulungagung continue according to schedule. Nevertheless, authorities remain prepared to adjust plans if the regional situation changes.