No permit, no hajj: Saudi intensifies crackdown after heat deaths

Saudi Arabia is intensifying efforts to prevent unregistered pilgrims from participating in this year’s hajj, following last year’s tragedy where 1,301 unauthorized pilgrims died due to extreme heat. The government is employing drone surveillance, security raids, and a nationwide campaign emphasizing “No hajj without a permit” to enforce regulations, as 83% of last year’s fatalities were unregistered. With fines for unauthorized pilgrims doubled and a focus on restricting entry to only those with proper permits, authorities aim to ensure the safety and exclusivity of the pilgrimage amid rising temperatures.