More than 1.5 million Muslims gathered in Makkah on Monday as the annual Hajj pilgrimage began amid growing hopes for peace in the Middle East following months of regional conflict.
Pilgrims dressed in white robes arrived in Mina, the vast tent city near Makkah, after performing Tawaf around the Holy Kaaba at the Grand Mosque. Many travelled by bus while others walked despite temperatures rising to 45 degrees Celsius. Saudi health authorities advised pilgrims to use umbrellas and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun to prevent heat-related illnesses.
The pilgrimage is taking place as uncertainty continues over tensions involving Iran and discussions about extending a fragile ceasefire in the region. US President Donald Trump said any future agreement with Iran would need to be “great and meaningful.”
Saudi Arabia has increased security measures during the pilgrimage, with air defence systems deployed near the holy sites. Despite regional tensions, Saudi officials said international pilgrim numbers this year have exceeded last year’s figures.
Many pilgrims expressed hope that peace and stability would soon return to the region.
