Saudi Arabia reports 1,301 deaths during haj pilgrimage

The Tragic Aftermath of the Hajj: 1,301 Faithful Lost their Lives

Saudi Arabia revealed a sobering statistic on Sunday – more than 1,300 deaths occurred during the recent Hajj pilgrimage due to intense heat and lack of official permits. The official Saudi Press Agency reported that 83% of the deceased did not have authorization to participate in the pilgrimage, exposing themselves to the scorching sun without adequate shelter or comfort.

An AFP tally indicated over 1,100 deaths. The victims hailed from over 10 countries, with Egyptians constituting the largest share of the fatalities. Diplomats attributed most deaths to heat-related causes, as temperatures soared above 50 degrees Celsius in Mecca.

The Saudi Health Minister, Fahd Al-Jalajel, hailed this year’s hajj management as “successful” despite the tragedy. However, controversies emerged over unregistered pilgrims, with Saudi authorities estimating that around 400,000 participated without permits. This led to insufficient amenities and healthcare access, exacerbating the death toll.

This unfortunate event underscores the challenges faced during the Hajj pilgrimage, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of all participants. As the world mourns the loss of these faithful souls, it serves as a sobering reminder of the risks and sacrifices involved in this sacred journey.