More than 1.5m foreign pilgrims begin Hajj despite Iran war fears
Summary
More than 1.5 million foreign Muslims have started the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, despite fears about conflict involving Iran. Saudi Arabia has taken security steps to protect the pilgrims amid ongoing tensions in the region.Key Facts
- About 1.51 million foreign pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia for Hajj this year, 11,000 more than last year.
- The pilgrimage is happening despite worries over a conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
- Iran and the US/Israel have been involved in attacks, including missile and drone strikes in the region.
- Saudi Arabia has deployed air defense systems near Mecca to protect the holy sites.
- Two civilians and one US service member were killed in attacks linked to the conflict earlier this year.
- Pilgrims perform rituals including walking around the Kaaba and traveling to places like Mina and Mount Arafat.
- Temperatures reached 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) on the first day of Hajj.
- The Hajj is a mandatory religious journey for Muslims who can afford it and are physically able.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.