At least 600 Egyptian pilgrims have died during this year's Hajj in Saudi Arabia, according to an Arab diplomat speaking to AFP on Wednesday. The death toll surged as temperatures in Mecca soared to a blistering 51.8°C (125°F) this week, with heatstroke cited as the primary cause. 🌍🔥
What’s Happening?
The Hajj, one of Islam's holiest pilgrimages, drew 1.8 million people to Mecca this year. But extreme heat turned the spiritual journey into a crisis for many. The diplomat stated all newly confirmed deaths were due to the 'searing heat', with earlier reports noting 323 Egyptian fatalities before the toll doubled. 💔
Who’s Affected?
Beyond Egypt, casualties include 68 Indian nationals, 4 Russians, and 35 Tunisians, according to diplomats and state media. Tunisian authorities called it a 'national tragedy'. Many pilgrims braved the heat for rituals like Wuquf (standing at Mount Arafat), where shade is limited.
⚠️ This marks one of the deadliest Hajj seasons in recent years, sparking global conversations about climate risks during mass religious events.
