Makkah: More than 1.5 million Muslims arrived in Makkah on Monday as the annual Haj pilgrimage officially began amid hopes for peace in the Middle East.
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Pilgrims dressed in white robes travelled by buses and on foot to the vast tent city in Mina after performing tawaf at Masjid al-Haram.
Haj Begins Amid Regional Uncertainty
This year’s Haj takes place during ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The pilgrimage also comes as Donald Trump continues discussing a possible extension of the Iran ceasefire and efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Muslims from around the world, including Iran, travelled to Saudi Arabia despite fears linked to regional conflict.
However, Saudi officials remained focused on ensuring a peaceful spiritual environment for pilgrims.
Saudi Arabia Increases Security Measures
Meanwhile, Saudi authorities strengthened security around the holy sites.
A video released by the Saudi defence ministry showed advanced air defence systems deployed near Makkah.
Officials said the forces were prepared to protect pilgrims and respond to any aerial threats.
“The air defence forces are responsible for protecting the skies over the holy sites,” the ministry said.
Pilgrims Express Hope for Peace
Many worshippers voiced hope that peace would soon return to the region.
“The war in Iran has affected the entire world,” said Mohammed Chahada, an Egyptian pilgrim. “Nobody wants wars or harm to countries and peoples.”
Despite geopolitical tensions, Saudi authorities confirmed that more foreign pilgrims arrived this year compared to 2025.
Extreme Heat Fails to Dampen Spirits
The pilgrimage is also taking place under intense summer temperatures expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius during the week.
Even so, pilgrims remained emotional and excited as they fulfilled lifelong religious dreams.
“I have wanted to perform the pilgrimage my entire life,” said Jreish Mohammed, a 68-year-old pilgrim from Morocco. “This year, my dream came true.”
