Hajj 2025: As pilgrims gather in Mecca, a look back at past tragedies

The annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca commences amidst a history of tragic incidents, including stampedes, attacks, and fires. Last year, over 1,300 pilgrims died due to extreme heat. This year, with temperatures expected to exceed 40°C, Saudi authorities have deployed 250,000 personnel from forty agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of over a million pilgrims.