The Price of Terror on the Path of Faith: Saudi Arabia’s Bold Action Against Pakistan’s Hajj Pilgrims

 International News: On 29 April 2025, when the first flight of Haj pilgrims from Pakistan left for Mecca, no one thought that a few hours later a decision would come out which would not only be heavy on the faith of the pilgrims of Pakistan, but would also put another deep spot on its global image. Saudi Arabia cancelled the applications of 67,210 private Haj pilgrims of Pakistan amidst increasing global dissatisfaction over terrorism. This step was not only unexpected, but the message was also clear - now the game of terror will not work under the guise of religion.

The decision shook millions of hearts

This year 90,830 people from Pakistan were going to go on Haj through private tour operators. But now only 23,620 pilgrims can travel under this scheme. This means that only 26% of the total private passengers have been allowed, everyone else has been stopped. At a time when preparations for holy work like Haj are in full swing, this decision shook millions of hearts.

 what is the real reason behind this sudden and strict decision?

In the background, the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir has once again questioned the role of Pakistan. The patience of the global community has now started responding in front of India's strict action and evidence. In the same environment, Pakistan's Defense Minister Khwaja Asif's statement worked as a ghee in the fire, in which he clearly stated that "our past has been supporting terrorists."This is the first time an Islamic nation - and that too, Saudi Arabia - has taken such a tough stand. This decision of Saudi Arabia shows that now the world wants to respond to "steps", not from "words" against terrorism.

After this step, the Government of Pakistan is in a hurry. The Prime Minister has constituted the inquiry committee, but the question is whether it will be only a paper exercise or an opportunity for introspection?

A moral warning for Pakistan 

Drawing religious sentiments into political strategy is never sustainable. Stopping Haj pilgrimage is not a religious action, but a moral warning for Pakistan - if he wants to wash the sins of his past, he will have to join eyes with the truth of his present.

This decision is not just news of visa or application rejection; This is the side of a global erection. And in this, Pakistan has to decide whether it wants to live in the role of "hunting" or rebirth as a responsible nation.