Mecca's Hajj pilgrimage starts June 4, Saudi Arabia says

The annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca will commence on June 4, as announced by Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court after the crescent moon sighting. The announcement, made on Tuesday, confirms the start of the Islamic lunar month, which dictates the Hajj dates. Over a million pilgrims have already arrived in the country, according to the Saudi Hajj minister. The Hajj, a key Islamic pillar, draws millions annually. Last year's pilgrimage saw 1.8 million participants, with the event occurring during the scorching summer months.