Mecca, Saudi Arabia – The death toll from this year’s Hajj pilgrimage has risen to nearly 500, with reports indicating that the actual number of casualties could be even higher. Among the deceased are worshipers from various countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Jordan, Pakistan, Tunisia, Iran, and India. The tragic event has also claimed the lives of multiple US citizens, although the exact number has not been confirmed by the US State Department.
Thousands of pilgrims have been affected by heatstroke, with many hospitalized due to extreme temperatures reaching up to 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit). The Iranian Red Crescent reported numerous cases of heat-related illnesses among Iranian pilgrims. The Saudi Ministry of Health implemented safety measures to mitigate the effects of the heat, but the high temperatures still posed significant challenges for the pilgrims.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has established a crisis unit to provide support to the families of the deceased and coordinate the repatriation of their bodies. The official death toll among Egyptians stands at 28, although reports suggest that the actual number of Egyptian casualties could be as high as 500 to 600.
The pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a significant religious duty that every able-bodied Muslim is expected to fulfill at least once in their lifetime. Pilgrims face numerous challenges during the journey, including the overcrowding of pilgrims, extreme weather conditions, and the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Despite the tragedy, the Hajj remains a source of prestige and revenue for Saudi Arabia. The pilgrimage generates significant economic benefits for the kingdom, with plans to further expand and diversify the economy through investments in infrastructure and tourism related to the pilgrimage.
In conclusion, the recent deaths during the Hajj pilgrimage highlight the challenges and risks faced by millions of pilgrims who travel to Mecca each year. The authorities involved are working to provide support to the affected families and ensure the safety of future pilgrimages through improved safety measures and coordination.