The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom terminated a visit to a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia after USCIRF Chairman Abraham Cooper, an Orthodox rabbi, was asked to remove his kippah head covering. Cooper refused to comply, citing his religious beliefs.
Key Points
USCIRF terminated a visit to a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia
Chairman Abraham Cooper was asked to remove his kippah head covering
Cooper refused to comply with the request
The incident highlighted issues with religious freedom in Saudi Arabia
Pros
Highlighting the importance of religious freedom
Raising awareness about discrimination based on religious beliefs
Cons
Denial of access to a heritage site based on religious identity