Did Iran Extend Condolences to India Following the Tragic Deaths of Indian Pilgrims in Saudi Arabia's Bus Mishap?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Iran's Embassy expresses condolences over the bus accident.
- A passenger bus collided with a diesel tanker near Madina.
- The Indian Consulate in Jeddah is offering support to affected families.
- Most of the pilgrims are reportedly from Hyderabad.
- Rescue operations are ongoing, and local residents are assisting.
New Delhi/Tehran, Nov 17 (NationPress) The Iranian Embassy in New Delhi conveyed its profound sadness regarding the fatalities of Indian pilgrims in a bus crash in Saudi Arabia's Madina, offering its heartfelt condolences to the Indian populace.
A passenger bus carrying multiple Indian Umrah pilgrims collided with a diesel tanker in the early hours of Monday near Madina, as confirmed by the Indian mission in Jeddah.
In a statement shared on X, the Iranian Embassy stated, "The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in New Delhi expresses its deep sorrow over the tragic loss of Indian pilgrims in Madinah and extends its heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of the Republic of India. We express our sincere sympathy to the bereaved families, praying for eternal peace and mercy for the deceased, and for strength and patience for their loved ones."
In response to the accident, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah has established a 24/7 control room and released helpline numbers for those in need of assistance.
"In light of the tragic bus accident near Madina, Saudi Arabia, involving Indian Umrah pilgrims, a 24x7 Control Room has been set up at the Consulate General of India, Jeddah," the Consulate announced on X.
The Consulate General of India in Jeddah further stated, "We extend our deepest condolences to the grieving families. The embassy in Riyadh and the Jeddah Consulate are coordinating with the Saudi Haj and Umrah Ministry, local authorities, and Umrah operators. A team from the Consulate and Indian community volunteers is actively assisting at various hospitals and sites. We are providing full support, and our officials are also liaising with the relevant officials from the State of Telangana to assist the affected families."
Preliminary, unverified media reports suggest that a majority of the pilgrims hailed from Hyderabad. Given the intensity of the explosion from the collision, significant casualties are anticipated.
According to unconfirmed reports, the bus was en route from Mecca to Madina, transporting pilgrims who had completed their rituals in Mecca. Most passengers were reportedly asleep at the time of the crash.
Rescue operations are currently in progress, with local residents rushing to the scene to aid those severely injured. The precise number of casualties has yet to be officially confirmed.