Iranian TV Host Sheikh Qasemian Arrested in Saudi Arabia During Hajj After Criticizing Kingdom in Video

Saudi authorities have arrested Sheikh Qasemian, a prominent Iranian religious figure and television personality, during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, according to reports from Iranian media outlets and sources close to the cleric.

Qasemian, widely recognized in Iran for hosting the Quranic program Mahfel, was reportedly detained after a video he recorded during the pilgrimage began circulating online. In the video, he delivered a strongly worded critique of recent developments in Saudi Arabia, drawing parallels between contemporary events and the era of the Umayyads.

“We are in the presence of the Messenger of God, praying for all dear ones,” Qasemian said in the clip. “From now on, instead of having to go to Antalya, people can travel to Mecca and Medina. The merchants and usurpers of the Qibla, the gambling houses, centers of vice, and rebellious concerts are all prepared. Things are returning to the original settings of the Umayyads.”

He continued by warning against being misled by “diplomatic visits” and described Saudi policies as “the will of atheism” cloaked in religious garb. “The restrictions are terrifying to the extent that even pilgrims are not allowed to understand the knowledge of Hajj here,” he added.

Saudi authorities have not yet issued a formal statement regarding the arrest. However, analysts note that critical public commentary on the Kingdom’s social and religious policies—especially when voiced during high-profile religious events like Hajj—can prompt swift legal and political consequences.

The arrest could further strain diplomatic relations between Tehran and Riyadh, which only recently began thawing after years of tension. It also raises concerns about freedom of religious expression during one of Islam’s most sacred annual gatherings.

Iranian officials have not publicly commented on the arrest as of this writing.

Iranian TV Host Sheikh Qasemian Arrested in #SaudiArabia During #Hajj after Criticizing Kingdom in Videohttps://t.co/YpEPaN6iDn pic.twitter.com/wreShk03da

— The Shia Post (@shiapost) May 27, 2025