Saudi Interior Minister, Prince Naif vowed late on Wednesday to strike with an iron fist any "terrorist" group trying to sabotage security at the annual haj pilgrimage.
"Our precautionary security measures for haj this year are of the highest order...terrorist organizations seeking to tamper with our security during the haj will be dealt with with an iron fist," the minister said.
"It is normal to take security measures and it is normal to prepare for the worst. Haj remains the priority for the pilgrims and I hope nothing will happen," said Prince Naif as he watched thousands of troops parade outside the holy city of Mecca.
Prince Naif, who is also the chairman of the Haj supreme committee, said the Saudi officials are keen on enabling the pilgrims to perform their rituals in comfort and ease in a secured atmosphere, and added "we will take the required security measures during the Haj days."
According to SPA, Prince Naif pointed out that the Saudi borders would be open for receiving the Iraqi pilgrims, and added "however, the Saudi authorities would not allow any person to enter the Saudi territories illegally." (Albawaba.com)
