A massive stampede during the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia has left more than 700 people dead and hundreds of others injured, marking the deadliest incident in the event in 25 years.
This tragedy, which comes shortly after a crane collapse in Mecca earlier in the month, occurred during the ritual where pilgrims throw stones at pillars symbolising the devil. The Saudi civil defence service reported that the death toll was still being confirmed and that victims came from multiple countries. At least 863 people were also injured.
Nearly two million pilgrims from around the world were taking part in the Hajj, one of the globe’s largest yearly religious gatherings.
Iran announced that at least 43 of its nationals had died and blamed Saudi authorities for safety lapses contributing to the disaster.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said there were no reports of Australians being affected. According to a spokesperson, the Australian Embassy in Riyadh remained in communication with Saudi officials who confirmed that no Australian pilgrims had been harmed.
The crush began around 9:00am local time in Mina, about five kilometres from Mecca, shortly after officials stated online that they were responding to a crowding situation.
Large numbers of pilgrims had gathered in Mina to perform the stoning ritual, the final major act of the Hajj, which concludes on Sunday.
A hospital official explained that the stampede occurred just outside the Jamarat Bridge area. One group of pilgrims leaving the site collided with another group that was either moving toward the ritual point or resting nearby.
Bodies were seen lined up on the ground, covered with white cloths and surrounded by personal items such as shoes and umbrellas used for shade.
