Millions gather in Mecca for Hajj despite security concerns

Pilgrims begin sacred journey in Mecca amid heat and regional tensions

Over 1.5 million Muslims began filling a vast tent city in the holy city of Mecca on Monday for an annual hajj pilgrimage carried out against the backdrop of hopes for an end to the war in the Middle East.

The start of the hajj came as U.S. President Donald Trump continued to send mixed signals over a possible agreement to extend an uneasy ceasefire with Iran and a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Over several days, pilgrims carry out a series of important rituals, including circling around the holy Kaaba – a cube-shaped stone building draped in a black cloth at the centre of Mecca's Grand Mosque – and gathering at Mount Arafat for prayers and reflection.