Millions Complete Hajj Pilgrimage in Mecca Amid Heat

On Friday, thousands of Muslim faithful began leaving Mecca after completing the Hajj pilgrimage, which saw participation from 1.7 million people across 165 countries. This year's pilgrimage occurred against a backdrop of conflict in the Middle East, including U.S.-Israeli strikes and Iranian retaliation.

Pilgrims like Ahm Mamdouh, a 37-year-old Egyptian, expressed joy and relief at completing the rituals safely despite the scorching heat. Al Zaoui, a 74-year-old Algerian, celebrated fulfilling a lifelong dream of performing Hajj with his wife after 50 years of marriage.

The pilgrimage included the stoning of the devil at Mina and the farewell Tawaf around the Kaaba. Saudi authorities reported that 1,300 people died during the Hajj due to extreme temperatures, which exceeded 50°C.

In response, they introduced heat mitigation measures, including shaded areas and additional health workers from the Saudi Red Crescent to provide emergency services.