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CBSJun 20
Saudi Arabia Confirms Over 1.3K Pilgrims Died During Heat-Stricken Hajj
Above: Muslim pilgrims gather for Friday prayers in the Al-Ka'aba mosque in January 2005. Image copyright: Abid Katib/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Saudi Arabia issued a statement Sunday confirming that 1,301 people died during the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca this year due to extreme heat, with some individuals still under care.
This comes as a senior Saudi official said Friday that 577 deaths were reported on the two busiest days of the Hajj season when pilgrims stand in vigil at Mount Arafat and perform the so-called "stoning of the devil ritual" in Mina.
The Spin
Narrative A
Every year that passes worsens the health threat to pilgrims attending Hajj due to climate change. The extreme heat during summer in Saudi Arabia may make the risks associated with the pilgrimage unbearable, yet crowds continue to participate in an event known for deadly stampedes and other fatal incidents. Although a significant part of Muslim worship, the safety of this pilgrimage should be scrutinized in the interests of its attendees.
Narrative B
Saudi Arabia allocated resources to ensure the well-being of pilgrims and mitigate a potential surge in heat-related illnesses as huge crowds packed Mecca amid high temperatures — even raising awareness of the importance of preventive measures. However, hundreds of deaths have sadly been recorded as unauthorized pilgrims performed Hajj who were walking long distances under direct sunlight, with inadequate shelter and comfort.