Mecca, Saudi Arabia — June 7, 2025
At least 13 Iranian pilgrims have died while participating in this year’s Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, Iranian officials confirmed on Saturday.
The deceased, part of the large Iranian contingent attending the annual Islamic pilgrimage, reportedly succumbed to health complications exacerbated by the extreme heat and physically demanding rituals. Specific details regarding the causes of death were not immediately released, but Iranian authorities stated that several of the victims were elderly or had pre-existing medical conditions.
Iran’s Red Crescent and the Hajj and Pilgrimage Organization are coordinating with Saudi authorities to manage the situation and facilitate the repatriation of the bodies.
Over 1.8 million Muslims from around the world are attending this year’s pilgrimage, which began earlier this week. With temperatures in Mecca soaring past 45°C (113°F), health and safety have been a growing concern for many delegations.
Iran has historically sent tens of thousands of pilgrims to the Hajj each year. The country’s officials emphasized the importance of better safety protocols and medical support, particularly for older pilgrims.
The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a spiritual duty for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake it at least once in their lifetime. It is also one of the largest annual religious gatherings in the world.
