8
A major controversy has erupted after an Iranian cleric affiliated to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was arrested in Saudi Arabia over a viral video of him criticising Riyadh. Gholamreza Ghasemian in a viral video was heard comparing Saudi religious cities to “obscene concerts”, prompting his arrest. Tehran quickly swung into damage control following the cleric’s arrest. The arrest has strained ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia. According to Iran Wire, Riyadh has now suspended Hajj visas issuance for Iranians. Riyadh’s move has affected Iranian pilgrims participating in this year’s Hajj.
