Muslims begin haj in sweltering heat and shadow of Middle East tensions
The annual haj pilgrimage commenced in Mecca on Monday, with over 1.5 million faithful gathered from abroad. Pilgrims are facing sweltering heat and regional geopolitical tensions as they undertake the sacred rites. The event, a fundamental pillar of Islam, involves several days of rituals, including circling the Kaaba and converging in desert tent camps. AI
