US expresses condolence over Hajj stampede

The United States issued its condolences for a “heartbreaking” stampede near Makkah that claimed the lives of more than 717 pilgrims Thursday.

National Security Council spokesman Ned Price said the U.S.’s thoughts are with the victims’ families “and the more than 2 million people undertaking the Hajj this year.”

“As Muslims around the world continue to celebrate Eid al-Adha, we join you in mourning the tragic loss of these faithful pilgrims,” he added.

At least 717 Hajj pilgrims were killed – and at least 800 injured – in a stampede that occurred near Makkah in Saudi Arabia, according to Saudi officials. The stampede occurred in the town of Mina, located roughly 5 kilometres east of Makkah, shortly after pilgrims had performed a ritual in which they throw stones at a structure representing the devil.