Iron ore sintering is a critical agglomeration process in iron and steelmaking, enhancing the physical and chemical characteristics of raw materials to optimize blast furnace performance. The granulation stage, wherein fine iron ore particles are combined with fluxes, fuels, and binders, is pivotal in determining the quality of the final sinter. Conventional granulation methods typically employ ambient-temperature water, often resulting in suboptimal granule formation, uneven moisture distribution, and reduced permeability in the sinter bed. This study investigates the application of hot water, at temperatures ranging from 60°C to 95°C, during the granulation process to improve raw mix properties and sintering performance. The controlled addition of hot water raised the temperature of the green mix by at least 10°C, achieving final mix temperatures between 35°C and 45°C and a target moisture content of 7.5% to 8%. The modified process led to more uniform water dispersion and improved granule formation, as reflected by an increase in the balling index from 1.22% to 1.53%. The granulated mix was subsequently sintered under controlled suction conditions, resulting in enhanced sinter yield and higher production rates. Overall, the use of hot water in the granulation stage significantly improves process efficiency, granule quality, and the performance of the sintering operation.