Great number of Muslims plan Hajj, in spite of attack danger
Published: 26 December, 2006, 11:19
Thousands of Muslims are preparing for the annual Hajj to the holy city of Mecca. On December 29, pilgrims will carry out rituals before starting their journey to the Al Haram Mosque.
As many as 3 MLN people are expected to take part in the pilgrimage this year, including some 18,000 Russians.In recent years hajjes have been marred by fatal incidents. The most deadly occurred last January when 362 pilgrims died.This year, there are fears of sectarian violence and militant attacks.
26.12.2006, 09:05
Survivors remember victims of 2004 TsumaniIn Indonesia, people have marked the 2nd anniversary of the devastating tsunami that caused huge waves leaving 230,000 people dead. Survivors and mourners in the worst-hit Aceh province laid wreaths and visited mass graves. |
26.12.2006, 11:20
Life sentence for Beslan terrorist affirmedRussia’s Supreme Court has affirmed the life sentence for convicted terrorist Nur-Pashi Kulaev, the only surviving militant involved in the 2004 Beslan tragedy. Many relatives and victims of the massacre say the ruling was insufficient. |
