More than 1.5m foreign pilgrims begin Hajj despite Iran war fears

Over 1.51 million foreign pilgrims have commenced the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, an increase of 11,000 from the previous year. This significant gathering is taking place amidst regional tensions stemming from the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. Saudi authorities have deployed air defence systems around Mecca to ensure the safety of pilgrims, following past Iranian missile and drone attacks that resulted in civilian and military casualties. Pilgrims have expressed hopes for a peace agreement between the US and Iran.

The annual haj pilgrimage, a fundamental pillar of Islam, commenced on Monday in Saudi Arabia. Over 1.5 million pilgrims have arrived from abroad for the event. The faithful are undertaking the pilgrimage amidst regional tensions and uncertainty, including a fragile ceasefire in the Iran war. The haj is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for Muslims who are financially and physically able to participate. An Egyptian pilgrim expressed gratitude for being able to attend.

For the third consecutive year, Palestinians in Gaza are unable to perform the Hajj pilgrimage due to Israel's closure of the border. Approximately 3,000 Gazans were scheduled to travel for the 2024 Hajj, but their plans were thwarted by the ongoing conflict and Israel's blockade. Entry and exit from Gaza are controlled by Israel, and while the Rafah crossing has partially opened for medical patients, other travel, including for pilgrimage, remains nearly impossible. The article highlights the heartbreak of individuals like Hanan al-Hams, who lost her home and son and is now also denied the Hajj. The ongoing war and displacement in Gaza have intensified grief as the Hajj season begins in Saudi Arabia.