Al Mayadeen English
With over 1.47 million international pilgrims already arriving for the 2025 Hajj, Saudi Arabia continues to enforce strict regulations to prevent overcrowding and heat deaths during the pilgrimage. A long-standing quota system allocates Hajj slots by country based on its population, while entry restrictions ahead of the Hajj seasons are tightened to curb unauthorized pilgrims, which the Saudi Ministry of Interior warned against. Otherwise, performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a permit can result in a 20,000 SAR (5331.89 USD) fine, deportation, and a 10-year re-entry ban into the country.
Rosa Moro
Hannan Hussain
Tehran University Prof. Mohammad Marandi on the growing relations between Iran and certain
In an exclusive interview for Al Mayadeen, Tehran University Professor Mohammad Marandi discussed Iran's strategic efforts, under late President Raisi, to cultivate stronger political, economic, and cultural ties with countries outside the Western sphere, particularly in the Global South. Marandi highlighted the benefits of this approach, such as reduced dependence on the West, increased trade opportunities, and diplomatic successes.
