Saudi Arabia reveals death toll at Hajj pilgrimage

RIYADH, June 24 (YPA) – Saudi Health Minister Fahd Al-Jalajel said on Sunday that the death toll during this year’s Hajj season has risen to 1301.

The Saudi Press Agency “SPA” quoted the Health Minister during a television interview saying, “The number of deaths reached 1301. About 83% of the deceased being non-Saudis who performed Hajj without official permission.”

Al-Jalajel attributed the high number of deaths among pilgrims this year to the majority who “walked long distances under the sun, without shelter or rest.”

During an interview with “Al-Ikhbariya” channel, he highlighted the high temperatures recorded in the holy sites, noting that among the deceased were elderly individuals and those with chronic diseases, while others are still receiving care.

Al-Jalajel emphasized that authorities made significant efforts to raise awareness about the risks of heat stress and stressed the importance of adherence to preventive measures.

He also mentioned that all cases have been documented, and efforts are ongoing to communicate with the families of the deceased and identify them, which takes time due to many of the deceased not carrying identification documents.

“Necessary procedures have been taken to identify, bury, and honor them in Mecca, and death certificates have been issued accordingly,” he added.

According to Saudi authorities, 1.8 million pilgrims performed Hajj rituals this year, a number similar to last year, with 1.6 million coming from outside the Kingdom.

@E.Y.M