Amidst concerns about potential disruptions, Iran has denied any plans to use the Hajj pilgrimage for purposes beyond the traditional religious rites. Alireza Enayat, the Iranian ambassador to Saudi Arabia, stated on Saturday, June 15, 2024, that Iranian pilgrims have received "no instructions or directives to exploit the Hajj for any activities outside the norm."

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia's Interior Minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef, has assured the public that security forces are fully prepared to "quell any transgressions that could disrupt the sanctity of the Hajj."

Enayat, speaking to the Independent Arabia newspaper, emphasized the Saudi government's "tireless efforts" in facilitating the pilgrimage for all attendees. He highlighted that approximately 90,000 Iranians had already completed their spiritual journey in Mecca and Medina, enjoying "peace and tranquility." He further stated that the Iranian delegation, along with the rest of the pilgrims, was on the verge of converging on the holy sites to complete their rituals and return home with "acceptable pilgrimages, appreciated efforts, and pleasant memories."

Regarding reports of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's directive to the head of the Iranian Hajj delegation, Ali Baqeri, to deliver a speech during the "Declaration of Disavowal of Polytheism" ceremony in Arafat, Enayat stressed that Iranian pilgrims are "among the most organized and disciplined." He explained that Iran conducts extensive health, educational, administrative, and religious training to familiarize pilgrims with the Hajj rituals and the spiritual atmosphere of the pilgrimage.

He emphasized that Iranian officials "view the Hajj as a symbol of unity and closeness among Muslims, a great opportunity to draw closer to God and reflect on issues that matter to Muslims."

Enayat further asserted that the instructions given to the pilgrims were to "seize the opportunity to pray and recite the Quran," implicitly refuting claims that the delegation had arrived with ulterior motives.

In a separate announcement, the Saudi Interior Minister expressed his country's pride in serving the guests of God, highlighting the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to ensuring their safety and security. He commended the professionalism of the security and military personnel involved in the Hajj operation.

During a meeting with leaders of the security and military forces participating in the Hajj mission, the minister underscored the seamless coordination between various security and military agencies, which had contributed to the successful arrival of pilgrims at the holy sites and their safe passage through the Day of Tarwiyah. He directed a reinforcement of these efforts to continue facilitating the performance of rituals throughout the pilgrimage and ensure a safe return to their home countries.

On Friday, June 14, Iranian media reported that Supreme Leader Khamenei had tasked the head of the Iranian Hajj delegation, Ali Baqeri, with delivering a speech to the pilgrims on Saturday in Arafat. This directive sparked concerns about potential Iranian attempts to disrupt the Hajj this year.