Pilgrims kick off hajj under shadow of war

risingnepaldaily.com · 1 day ago

Over 1.5 million Muslims began the annual hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, with hopes for an end to the war in the Middle East. Pilgrims arrived at the tent city in Mina after performing the "tawaf" around the Kaaba. The start of the hajj occurs amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions, including signals from the US regarding a ceasefire with Iran and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi officials have increased security measures, positioning air defence batteries around the holy sites.