Baghdad: The Supreme Hajj and Umrah Commission has issued a call to citizens eligible to participate in the sacred Hajj pilgrimage, urging them to avoid actions that could potentially disrupt the solemnity of the rituals.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Commission emphasized the importance of treating the Hajj as a significant religious event that fosters unity among Muslims globally. The Commission’s statement highlighted the necessity for pilgrims to refrain from chanting or displaying any political or sectarian slogans. Additionally, it advised against wearing attire or showcasing images, flags, or symbols that bear political or sectarian meanings.

The Commission also cautioned against photographing religious and political figures within the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque and discouraged sharing offensive content on social media. It warned against exploiting the rituals to propagate political or provocative ideas or to promote or oppose movements.

The statement further alerted pilgrims about the prohibition of carrying certain items while traveling, such as illegal narcotics, cigarettes, hookahs, jewelry, and exceeding cash limits.

Additionally, the Commission reminded pilgrims of the legal implications of aiding individuals without an official Hajj permit, warning of significant financial penalties, possible imprisonment, and future entry bans to the Holy Land.

The Commission stressed the importance of collaboration with Hajj authorities in adhering to regulations and plans, avoiding actions that could incite animosity among pilgrims of different nationalities and sects, and steering clear of heated debates over controversial religious decrees.

These advisories are intended to facilitate a peaceful and smooth Hajj experience for Iraqi pilgrims and to prevent complications such as quarantine or deportation due to violations of Saudi Arabian laws and regulations.