Muslims begin haj in sweltering heat and shadow of Middle East tensions

On Monday, the yearly haj pilgrimage, a fundamental aspect of Islam, commenced. As reported by Saleh bin Saad Al-Murabba, the commander of the haj passport forces, over 1.5 million pilgrims have traveled to Saudi Arabia from abroad. This influx occurs amid a fragile ceasefire in the Iran war, coupled with ongoing regional tensions. Egyptian pilgrim Samya Abdul Moneim shared her joy and gratitude for the opportunity to undertake this journey, which is obligatory for every Muslim who is financially and physically capable at least once in their lifetime. On the pilgrimage's first day, many gathered in a vast tent camp in the desert surrounding Mecca, having already circled the Kaaba in the Grand Mosque under intense heat. For many, the haj is a profound spiritual journey, offering a chance for divine forgiveness and the cleansing of past sins. Pilgrims engage in rituals spanning several days, often spending years in preparation for this significant event.