**Middle East Crisis: Nigerian Pilgrims Stranded, Govt Suspends Trips to Israel** For many Nigerians, the festive season of pilgrimage to the Holy Land was cut short due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East. As tensions between Iran and the United States soar, our compatriots abroad are crying out for help, while the Federal Government has suspended all pilgrimages to Israel. The crisis in the Middle East has sent shockwaves across the globe, with Iran retaliating against Israel and its allies in the Gulf region. The situation has worsened, with hundreds of lives lost, including Iran's spiritual leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and his family members. The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) has been monitoring the situation closely and has taken the decision to suspend all pilgrimages to Israel, citing the deteriorating security situation. As the situation unfolds, many Nigerians in the Middle East are reaching out to their loved ones in Nigeria, seeking support and rescue. The Nigeria in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has confirmed receiving distress calls from Nigerians in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Iran. The Commission's spokesman, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, clarified that these calls are genuine and require urgent attention. The suspension of pilgrimages to Israel comes just after the NCPC concluded its 2025 Main Pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan, with the last batch of pilgrims arriving safely at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. This development is a clear indication of the Commission's commitment to the safety and comfort of Nigerian pilgrims. The crisis in the Middle East has far-reaching implications for Nigeria, including the oil market. The suspension of pilgrimages is a pragmatic decision to prioritize the safety of our citizens. As the situation develops, Nigerians are called upon to pray for peace in Jerusalem and the wider Middle East. In the midst of this chaos, the NCPC has urged Nigerians to remain calm and patient, assuring them that the situation will return to normal soon. As we navigate this challenging time, we must prioritize the safety and well-being of our citizens abroad.