Diplomats have reported that at least 550 pilgrims lost their lives during this year’s Hajj, highlighting the arduous nature of the pilgrimage, which once again unfolded under scorching temperatures.
Among the deceased, at least 323 were Egyptians, with the majority succumbing to heat-related illnesses. Additionally, at least 60 Jordanians were reported dead.
The impact of climate change on the Hajj pilgrimage is becoming increasingly evident. A Saudi study published last month indicated that temperatures in the ritual areas are rising by 0.4 degrees Celsius (0.72 degrees Fahrenheit) each decade.
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In response to the situation, Egypt’s foreign ministry stated that it is collaborating with Saudi authorities to search for Egyptians who went missing during the Hajj. Although the ministry acknowledged “a certain number of deaths,” it did not clarify whether Egyptians were among them.
While Saudi authorities have treated over 2,000 pilgrims for heat stress, this figure has not been updated since Sunday, and no further information on fatalities has been provided.
This year, approximately 1.8 million pilgrims participated in the Hajj, with 1.6 million of them coming from abroad, according to Saudi officials.
