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Pilgrims pray on Mount Arafat as hajj reaches peak amid soaring temperatures

From The Punch · () English

Translated from English and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

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  • Over 1.5 million Muslims are performing the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, with the peak occurring on Mount Arafat.
  • Pilgrims face extreme heat, with temperatures nearing 44C, prompting authorities to urge caution and hydration.
  • Despite regional conflicts, Saudi officials report an increase in international pilgrims this year compared to 2025.

Muslims from around the globe gathered at Mount Arafat, also known as the Mountain of Mercy, to perform wuquf, the most crucial ritual of the Hajj pilgrimage. Worshippers, clad in white, recited verses from the Quran on the rocky hill, believed to be where the Prophet Mohammed delivered his final sermon.

This year's Hajj sees over 1.5 million participants, a number that has increased from 2025 despite ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The war between the US and Iran has impacted travel, with Iran sending about a third of its expected pilgrims due to the "wartime situation."

Pilgrims are contending with intense desert heat, with temperatures reaching up to 44 degrees Celsius in Mecca. Saudi authorities have advised participants to drink ample water and seek shade, especially since men are not permitted to wear hats. The rituals, which can span five days, continue after Mount Arafat with an overnight stay in Muzdalifah before the symbolic stoning of the devil in Mina.

We know still not whether there are any signs of life, or if they are still alive.

· Bounkham LuanglatHead of a volunteer rescue organization in Laos, speaking to AFP about the trapped individuals.
About this summary

Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

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