Friday prayers across Middle East subdued by virus fears

JERUSALEM - From Jerusalem to Mecca, Muslims across the Middle East held Friday prayers under the shadow of the new coronavirus, with some gatherings cancelled and others subdued because of the deadly outbreak. The highly contagious disease is believed to be transmitted through close contact and authorities globally have moved to restrict large gatherings, including public prayers. In Mecca, Islam's holiest site was uncrowded after reopening on Friday following disinfection. "The fact that it is empty is very scary," an Egyptian worshipper who has lived in Mecca for more than 20 years said. "I had a very strange and difficult feeling as I was headed to the mosque. I felt deprived of the...