Conflicts over control of Mecca and Medina predate the modern Saudi state. Ottoman and subsequent Hashemite governments dominated the Hajj during the early 20th century. When the Saudis took control in 1925, they asserted political and religious authority over the sacred sites. Over time, other countries challenged Saudi authority over administration of the Hajj and the Islamic holy sites. Iran, especially after its 1979 revolution, often complained of Saudi trusteeship. Tehran cited abuse or deaths of…
