Even Iran, a Theocratic State, Cancels Friday Worship Due to COVID-19 Spread Concerns

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] As the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) rapidly spreads, the Iranian government has decided to cancel the Islamic Friday congregational prayers. With the surge in COVID-19 confirmed cases, even Iran, which proclaims itself as a theocratic state, has suspended religious schedules.

According to Iranian media on the 28th (local time), Friday prayers have been canceled in 23 cities, including Qom, a central city and one of the holiest sites for Shia Muslims. Qom is also considered the epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak in Iran.

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

The Iranian government has decided to cancel this week's Friday congregational prayers first and will determine whether to extend the suspension later.

It is considered unusual for Iran, which proclaims itself as a theocratic state, to suspend the important Friday congregational prayers. Previously, Iran never suspended Friday prayers even during the war with Iraq.

Meanwhile, in the case of Sunni-majority Saudi Arabia, foreign nationals have been banned from entering the Islamic holy sites of Mecca and Medina.