Over 1.5 million pilgrims arrive in Mecca for Hajj despite regional war tensions

More than 1.5 million Muslims from around the world have reached Mecca for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, a slight increase over the previous year. Saudi authorities have deployed air‑defence systems and troops around the holy sites to protect the crowds amid heightened Middle‑East tensions following recent Iranian missile and drone attacks on Saudi territory, including the strike on al‑Kharj on 8 March that killed two civilians and a U.S. service member.

Pilgrims reported long delays, higher travel costs and extreme heat of up to 45 °C, but expressed hope that diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran will calm the situation. The Saudi Ministry of Defense released video footage showing anti‑aircraft guns patrolling the area around the Grand Mosque as part of the security measures.

The Hajj, one of Islam’s five pillars, continues to draw millions despite the security challenges, with visitors praising the opportunity to complete the religious duty after months of uncertainty.