TRENGGALEK – Rising Iran-US-Israel tensions in the Middle East have sparked anxiety among Indonesian umrah pilgrims, including a regional Muhammadiyah leader from East Java who is currently in Saudi Arabia.

Wicaksono, head of the Trenggalek branch of Muhammadiyah, said concerns have grown as geopolitical friction between Iran, the United States, and Israel escalates. He is performing umrah with his wife, sister-in-law, and nephew.

“We are worried because on Monday (March 2) we are scheduled to move from Makkah to Jeddah,” Wicaksono told reporters by phone on Sunday night (March 1). “That part is expected to be safe. But the flight from Jeddah to Singapore, where we will transit, is difficult to predict.”

According to him, pilgrims have held discussions with their muthawif (religious guide) to prepare for possible disruptions. They are considering contingency plans in case flights are delayed or canceled, although no official confirmation has been issued regarding schedule changes.

“There is uncertainty now because some flights have reportedly not operated,” he said.

The situation has forced pilgrims to prepare for alternative arrangements. If departures are postponed, they may need to secure additional accommodation in Jeddah. However, the approaching Ramadan season has driven up hotel prices and reduced room availability.

Despite these concerns, Wicaksono said conditions in Saudi Arabia remain relatively stable for religious activities. Pilgrims continue to perform their umrah rituals while closely monitoring updates on regional developments and airline operations.

He expressed hope that tensions would ease soon, allowing all Indonesian pilgrims to return home as scheduled without major disruptions.

“Even in Madinah, hotels are already very difficult to find, especially in Makkah. If the worst happens, we may have to stay overnight in Jeddah under whatever conditions are available,” he said.