Saudi citizen who helped Israeli journalist sneak into Muslim-only Mecca arrested

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“All those coming to the Kingdom must respect the laws and abide by their requirements, especially with regard to the two holy mosques and holy sites, and that any violation of this kind is considered a crime that will not be tolerated and penalties will be applied to its perpetrators based on the relevant regulations,” Saudi police said in a statement.

Saudi police said it is also moving to take action against Tamari, who reportedly took a selfie on Mount Arafat.

The driver did not know Tamari was an Israeli, as he only spoke in English, the journalist said, according to the Jerusalem Post. His face was blurred for the report, so it’s unknown how Saudi police discovered his identity.

Monday’s report caused a social media firestorm among Muslims. A Saudi pro-Israeli blogger, Mohammed Saud, posted a video on Twitter denouncing Tamari for entering the holy region.

“My dear friends in Israel, your reporter entered the holy city of Mecca for Islam, and photographed without shame, it is like I will enter the synagogue and read in Torah, Shame and Disgrace Channel 13, you will be ashamed to hurt the religion of Islam, you are rude,” he said in Hebrew.

Tamari received a special permit to travel to Saudi Arabia to cover President Joe Biden’s visit to the kingdom.

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Attempting to enter Mecca as a non-Muslim can result in fines or deportation.

Channel 13 did not respond to a request for comment.