Iran Urges Saudi Arabia to Release Iranian Cleric Arrested Over Criticism

 

Iran's judiciary has condemned the arrest of Gholamreza Qassemian, an Iranian cleric who was detained in Saudi Arabia while visiting for the Hajj pilgrimage. The cleric was reportedly arrested after posting a video criticizing Saudi Arabia’s recent social reforms, including alleged plans to lift a long-standing alcohol ban and relax moral restrictions, which he claimed would lead to moral decay.

Qassemian’s remarks, made in a video circulating online, criticized what he called Saudi Arabia’s move toward “enabling moral corruption,” and referenced concerns about the kingdom’s social changes, such as allowing casinos, concerts, and the potential easing of alcohol restrictions—long considered taboo for devout Muslims. His comments also included a provocative comparison between Saudi Arabia and Turkish resort destinations.

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The Iranian judiciary described his arrest as “unjustified and illegal,” and Iran has called on Saudi authorities to release him. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that Iran condemns any efforts that could harm Muslim unity, especially during the Hajj season, emphasizing that Iran is monitoring the situation closely.

Saudi officials have not yet responded to requests for comment about the detention. Meanwhile, Iran’s Consulate in Jeddah has been actively engaging with authorities to secure Qassemian's release and has reportedly met with him twice since his arrest.