Despite the ongoing tension and security concerns in the Middle East, more than 1.5 million foreign pilgrims have reached Saudi Arabia for Haj this year. While 5 lakh local citizens are expected to participate in Haj. In such a situation this number can reach 20 lakhs. According to Saudi officials, this number is more than last year’s international Hajj pilgrims.

Tension had increased in the entire Gulf region after the attacks on Iran by America and Israel in February. In response, Iran targeted many areas of Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries, due to which air travel was severely affected and there was a huge increase in the prices of flight tickets.

Despite this, Muslim devotees from all over the world continue to reach Mecca. The main rituals of Haj have started from Monday (25 May). The main sermon of Haj will be held on Tuesday (26 May). Last year, out of the total 16.7 lakh Haj pilgrims, about 15 lakh came from foreign countries.

This year, due to war, many countries had issued travel advisories for their citizens, but devotees say that for them Hajj is not just a journey but the biggest religious duty of life. Many pilgrims from India, Pakistan, America, Britain, Australia and Germany said that despite regional tensions, they did not think of canceling their Haj pilgrimage.

At present lakhs of devotees have reached the huge tent city of Meena in Mecca and amidst the scorching heat, people are seen taking the help of umbrellas, hand fans and water bottles. Experts say that if the regional conflict escalates again, major challenges related to travel and logistics may arise, but at present the Haj pilgrimage is continuing peacefully.

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