Fueled by faith, some US Muslims are embarking on this year's Hajj against a backdrop of regional tensions and the lingering effects of the Iran war. For many, the spiritual journey to Mecca in Saudi Arabia remains a profound obligation, despite the uncertainties.
A Joyful Start Amidst Adversity
Faisal Rashid and his wife woke up at 3 a.m. in February to secure spots for Hajj before packages sold out. The adrenaline rush of navigating the digital booking platform from their home in Pasadena, California, was intense. When they succeeded, the emotion was overwhelming. “It was a very, very joyful experience,” said the 35-year-old doctoral candidate and Los Angeles Police Department reserve officer. “My wife was already crying, praying. We were very grateful that this happened,” he added, tears streaming down his face.
Since that day, much has changed. The Iran war erupted, widened, and eventually led to a tenuous ceasefire. Yet the couple's resolve to perform the pilgrimage has not wavered. They are among the US Muslims joining a sea of pilgrims from around the world for a Hajj that officially starts on Monday, overshadowed by regional instability.
The Spiritual Significance of Hajj
Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, a religious obligation for Muslims who are physically and financially able. It is a deeply spiritual journey, offering a chance to seek God's forgiveness and erase past sins. Many Muslims save for years and wait for permits to embark on this demanding expedition.
“It’s not something you just get,” said Rashid. “It’s something that if God invites you, then you’re able to go.” When his father asked about the war’s impact on their plans and an aunt inquired about refunds, Rashid reflected on pilgrims who endured far worse in the past. “You’re brought up to think about how this is a very physically and emotionally enduring expedition,” he explained.
A planner by nature, Rashid began tracking flights and registered for alerts from US embassies. But instead of worrying, he leans on his faith. “In Islam we’re taught that you’re supposed to do your very best effort but then let go of the things that you don’t have control over,” he said. “I need to let go and feel that, ‘Hey, you know what, God is the best of planners.’”
Travel Concerns and Uncertainty
On Friday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted “slight progress” in talks with Iran over a potential peace deal. This came days after President Donald Trump said he was holding off on a military strike because “serious negotiations” were underway. Trump has threatened that the April ceasefire could end if Iran does not agree to a deal.
Following the war's eruption, the US Embassy in Riyadh advised Americans to reconsider participating in Hajj, citing the “security situation and intermittent travel disruptions.” Dr. Ahmed Sufyan, a surgeon in Michigan, is concerned about potential flight disruptions on his return trip, which includes stops in Gulf countries embroiled in the conflict that began on February 28 with joint US-Israeli attacks on Iran and retaliatory strikes.
“There is some uncertainty with the war,” he said. “That does add a level of concern.” Still, he emphasized, “the faith is what drives us.” If this were a vacation, he couldn’t justify it, but Hajj is different. “I feel really lucky that I have this opportunity,” he said. “I personally know people who have attempted to go for many years, and it’s not easy to secure a spot.” For him, “Hajj transcends politics and conflict.” His goal is to return a better person, as the pilgrimage teaches patience and humility.
Costs and Unpredictability
Hajj brings together Muslims of diverse backgrounds, fostering unity. In India, high fuel prices have pushed up travel costs for pilgrims. In the US, uncertainty disrupted Noor-e-ain Shahid’s plans for her children’s care while she and her husband go on Hajj. The Texas neurologist had arranged for her children to stay with family in Dubai, but the war erupted after tickets were bought.
By late April, Shahid decided there was too much unpredictability. What if things flare up? What if flight delays leave her kids stuck in Dubai? Her in-laws offered to stay with the children in the US. She is not worried about her own safety. “If Allah has invited me, then Allah will take care of me,” she said. “And if Allah has decided my end is there in this situation, then, I mean, I accept that.” She feels fortunate, viewing Hajj as a rebirth. “You go there and you have an opportunity to become new when you come back and start over,” she said.
In California, Rashid and his wife have prepared physically by going to the gym and walking. New shoes must be broken in. They have also collected prayer requests from others. “You want to go in spiritually with a clean slate, not with any kind of ill hearts or bitterness,” Rashid said. “You don’t want to feel anxious about worldly things.”
