MECCA, Saudi Arabia — The sacred Hajj pilgrimage, considered one of Islam’s Five Pillars, officially commenced on Monday.
According to Saleh bin Saad Al-Murabba, commander of the Hajj passport forces, over 1.5 million worshippers from around the world have traveled to Saudi Arabia for this year’s pilgrimage. The religious gathering is occurring amid regional instability and a fragile ceasefire related to the Iran conflict.
Egyptian worshipper Samya Abdul Moneim expressed her deep gratitude for reaching the holy site, describing the pilgrimage as a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for Muslims who are financially and physically capable of making the journey.
“I am in a state of blessing and happiness,” she shared while in Mecca on Sunday. “It’s an indescribable feeling, truly. I mean, thank God, I am in a blessing.”
During the opening day, countless pilgrims traditionally gather at a massive tent encampment in the surrounding desert. Before this phase, worshippers have been walking around the cube-shaped Kaaba at the Grand Mosque despite oppressive temperatures. For the faithful, this pilgrimage represents a profound spiritual journey and an opportunity to seek divine forgiveness and cleansing from previous wrongdoings. The religious ceremonies span multiple days.
Many devotees spend years hoping, praying, and saving money while waiting for permits to undertake this sacred journey.
To combat the brutal heat during their religious observances, pilgrims have been carrying umbrellas for protection and using portable fans. Volunteers distribute water bottles to maintain hydration, while large cooling systems spray water mist throughout the area.
On Saturday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that an agreement with Iran regarding the conflict, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz, has been “largely negotiated” following discussions with Israel and regional allies. He characterized it as a “Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to PEACE” that requires final approval from the United States, Iran, and other participating nations. This development followed a week during which the U.S. considered additional military action against Iran.
Prior to departing for the pilgrimage, some participants expressed reliance on their faith during these uncertain times and overwhelming appreciation for the chance to make the journey.
The Hajj unites vast numbers of Muslims from different races, ethnicities, languages, and economic backgrounds, fostering a powerful sense of community among participants.
Given current uncertainties and global tensions, officials in Indonesia, which has the world’s largest Muslim population, have stressed emergency preparedness for the pilgrimage season and directed that extra travel expenses should not burden Indonesian participants.
In India, home to a significant Muslim minority, pilgrimage preparations have continued normally, though elevated fuel costs have increased travel expenses for participants.
Reopening the strait would help alleviate a global energy crisis triggered by U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, which prompted Tehran to effectively block the waterway. Costs have surged for oil, gas, and related commodities, disrupting the global economy. The U.S. has maintained a blockade of Iranian ports for more than a month, and Trump stated Sunday that the blockade “will remain in full force and effect until an agreement is reached, certified, and signed.”
Following the U.S.-Israeli strikes, Iran conducted retaliatory attacks that expanded the conflict before a delicate ceasefire was established in April.
In Saudi Arabia, pilgrims have been performing the traditional circling of the Kaaba since arriving in Mecca in recent days. Those traveling to Mina will stay in the expansive tent city for prayer and worship.
On Tuesday, during what many consider the pilgrimage’s most significant moment, worshippers will gather on the plain of Arafat to praise God, seek forgiveness, and offer prayers. Many bring prayer requests from family and friends, raising their hands in worship with tears of devotion.
