Pakistan, May 25 -- More than 1.5 million Muslims gathered in Makkah on Monday as the annual Hajj pilgrimage officially began. The pilgrimage unfolded amid growing uncertainty over tensions involving Iran and the Gulf region. Pilgrims from across the world arrived to perform sacred rituals despite fears surrounding regional security and extreme heat.

Pilgrims entered the vast tent city of Mina after completing the "tawaf" around the Kaaba at the Grand Mosque. Worshippers walked seven times around Islam's holiest site before continuing prayers and rituals. They also performed the traditional walk between the hills of Safa and Marwa. Saudi authorities confirmed international pilgrim arrivals surpassed last year's numbers despite regional i...