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Nearly 3 million performed Hajj |
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JEDDAH, Arab News — Haj Minister Fouad Al-Farsy said that nearly three million Muslim faithful, including foreign pilgrims, Saudis and expatriate workers performed Haj this year. Addressing the delegates of foreign Haj missions and media persons who won ministry’s prizes, Al-Farsy said the government had made all-out effort to make the annual event a success. “By the grace of God, about three million, including foreign and domestic pilgrims, stood on the plains of Arafat in prayer during this Haj,” the minister told the gathering at Crowne Plaza Hotel here yesterday. He said the happiness of a successful completion of Haj this year was marred by Thursday’s stampede at Jamrat in Mina, adding that the accident was caused by those pilgrims who ignored instructions. He said most pilgrims involved in the stampede were carrying large bags, obstructing movement of their fellow faithful. “We have advised pilgrims several times not to carry baggage while heading for Jamrat for the stoning ritual for the sake of their own safety.”
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