- Over 1,300 pilgrims perished during Hajj
- Most casualties were unauthorized attendees
- Criticism surrounds Saudi Arabia's handling of the situation
Saudi Arabia has reported a death toll of at least 1,301 during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage, with many casualties attributed to unauthorized pilgrims enduring extreme heat exceeding 50°C (122°F).
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), over three-quarters of the deceased did not possess official permits, opting to walk long distances under scorching sunlight without adequate shelter. Among the victims were elderly and chronically ill individuals.
Health Minister Fahd Al-Jalajel emphasized efforts to raise awareness about heat stress and provide medical treatment, revealing that nearly half a million pilgrims sought medical assistance, including 140,000 without permits, with some still hospitalized due to heat exhaustion.
Criticism has mounted against Saudi Arabia for allegedly insufficient safety measures, particularly for unregistered pilgrims who lack access to amenities like air-conditioned tents and official transport. Temperatures in Mecca soared to 51.8°C, exacerbating conditions.
Countries worldwide, including Egypt, Indonesia, and India, reported significant casualties among their citizens.
The aftermath has led to punitive actions, such as Egypt revoking licenses of 16 tourism firms and Jordan detaining travel agents involved in facilitating illegal pilgrimages. Tunisian President Kais Saied dismissed the minister of religious affairs amidst growing concerns.
Hajj permits are allocated through a quota system and distributed by lottery, but the high costs prompt many to attempt the journey without permits, risking arrest and deportation if caught.
Saudi authorities had previously expelled hundreds of thousands of unauthorized pilgrims from Mecca before the Hajj commenced.
