Millions gather in Mecca for Hajj

Despite security concerns linked to the conflict in the Middle East, pilgrims from around the world continue to arrive in Mecca for this year’s Hajj. Saudi officials say more than 1.5 million people have already reached the kingdom, with numbers expected to rise further as many say they are willing to take the risk to complete the pilgrimage.

1. Frame 1The annual Hajj opened in Mecca, drawing pilgrims from around the world to the Grand Mosque and wider rites.
2. Frame 2Saudi officials said more than 1.5 million pilgrims had reached the kingdom, with more arrivals expected.
3. Frame 3The gathering comes amid regional security concerns tied to Middle East conflict, but many travelers continued anyway.
4. Frame 4At the Kaaba, pilgrims performed Tawaf, circling inside Mecca’s Grand Mosque as the ritual sequence began.
5. Frame 5Rising numbers turn the week into a test of movement, crowd safety, and official coordination around the holy sites.
6. Frame 6What remains open: whether security concerns stay outside the pilgrimage as more pilgrims arrive and the rites continue.