Iranians find 'peace and safety' in Mecca during hajj

AI Summary

Iranians like Hassan Qadiri are finding peace and safety during the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, amidst ongoing war and bombing in Iran. The ceasefire has allowed pilgrims to participate peacefully in the religious festivities.

Being in Mecca has been nothing short of blissful for Hassan Qadiri, where participating in the festivities of the hajj pilgrimage is a welcome relief after weeks of devastating war back home in Iran. Qadiri and his family took cover as intense Israeli and American bombing raids targeted his native city of Isfahan in central Iran until an April ceasefire began. "We hear the call to prayer every day, not explosions here," Qadiri told AFP. "I'm very happy."