The United States has expressed its "deepest condolences" over the hundreds of Muslim pilgrims who died in a "heartbreaking stampede" outside Mecca during the annual hajj, the NBC reported Thursday.

US National Security Council spokesman Ned Price said "our thoughts are with them and the more than two 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."

Saudi authorities said at least 717 people were killed and 863 wounded when two waves of pilgrims met while moving in opposite directions.

Source: MENA