1.7 Million Pilgrims Perform Hajj Stoning Ritual Amid Heat, Geopolitical Tensions

Muslim faithful performed the climactic 'stoning of the devil' ritual in Mina, southeast of Mecca, on May 27, 2026. More than 1.7 million pilgrims participated in this key Hajj tradition, which reenacts Prophet Abraham's stoning of Satan at three sites where the devil tried to dissuade him from sacrificing his son.

The pilgrimage occurred amid intense heat, with pilgrims enduring 45°C temperatures during Tuesday's prayers at Mount Arafat. After spending Tuesday night under the stars at Muzdalifah, pilgrims collected pebbles for the Wednesday stoning ceremony.

This year's Hajj takes place during fragile geopolitical tensions, as the US-Israeli conflict with Iran has drawn in Gulf nations. The fragile ceasefire in place since April 8 has halted fighting, but diplomatic efforts remain inconclusive.

Today marks the final day of Hajj, coinciding with Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) which celebrates Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son. The festival typically involves slaughtering a sheep, with meat distributed to the needy.

As one of Islam's five pillars and required for all Muslims with means, how does this year's Hajj under challenging conditions reflect the resilience of global Muslim community?

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/05/27/hajj-pilgrims-stone-devil-in-final-ritual/