Millions flock to Iraq's Karbala for Arbaeen pilgrimage amid heightened security

Millions of Iraqi and international Shia pilgrims are converging on the southern province of Karbala for the annual Arbaeen pilgrimage, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

This event, which marks the 40th day of mourning following the martyrdom of Imam Hussein bin Ali, a central figure in Shia Islam and the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, is expected to draw over 22 million participants this year, according to official reports.

The Arbaeen pilgrimage, observed primarily in Shia-majority Iraq and neighbouring Iran, is set to take place on 25 August.

Pilgrims from across Iraq and beyond are making their way to Karbala on foot, a tradition that has significantly expanded since the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime in 2003, which had previously restricted such religious observances.

Sheikh Hussein Khoshnaw, Imam and preacher at the Ayatollah Hakim Husseiniyah in Sulaimaniyah, highlighted the pilgrimage's significance in an interview with The New Arab. 

"The people of Iraq warmly welcome pilgrims from around the world, offering them free food, drinks, and accommodation," Khoshnaw said.

He emphasised that visiting the holy shrines is considered a virtuous act, rewarded by Allah, and recalled that the Prophet Muhammad did not prohibit visiting the graves of virtuous men, as such visits remind Muslims of death and the Day of Judgment.

Khoshnaw also condemned any acts that sought to vilify certain important figures for Sunnis, such as the Prophet Muhammad's wife, Aisha, and the first two caliphs, Abu Bakr al-Siddiq and Omar ibn al-Khattab. He stressed that major Shia religious authorities in Najaf and Qom have declared such behaviour as religiously forbidden, as it fosters division among Muslims.

"Unfortunately, there are people within the Sunni and Shia sects who consider the other sect as an 'infidel', these persons do not represent the sects, and it is not permitted," he added. 

On the security front, Brigadier General Miqdad Miri, spokesperson for the High Security Committee overseeing the Arbaeen pilgrimage, outlined the comprehensive measures in place to safeguard the event. "A robust security presence has been deployed along the pilgrimage routes, supported by intelligence efforts, patrols, and fixed security points," Miri told Al-Araby Al-Jadeed's reporter in Baghdad Mohammed Imad.

The spokesperson assured that the situation remains stable, with no significant security concerns, and that security forces are firmly in control across the country.

The security strategy, which includes army aviation and drone surveillance, will remain in effect until the pilgrimage concludes. Notably, the plan does not involve widespread road closures, with only temporary measures expected on heavily trafficked routes.

Karbala's Provincial Council Chairman, Qasim Al-Yasiri, confirmed to the website that local authorities have completed all necessary preparations to accommodate the influx of pilgrims.

"There is substantial support from the central government, including exemptions for Karbala from scheduled power cuts and continuous fuel supplies to prevent shortages during the 24-hour vehicle operations," Al-Yasiri said.

He also highlighted ongoing efforts to maintain cleanliness in Karbala's streets and ensure the smooth return of pilgrims.

In addition, government spokesperson Haider Majid announced that all government resources have been mobilised for the pilgrimage.

"Intensified efforts are underway at border crossings, with increased staffing and expanded entry points to handle the influx of pilgrims," Majid said.

He added that the Ministry of Electricity is on high alert to ensure an uninterrupted power supply, particularly in Karbala and Najaf, while the Ministry of Transport has prepared a significant fleet of buses to manage the increased traffic.

As millions of Shia Muslims journey to Karbala for the Arbaeen pilgrimage, the event highlights its deep religious significance and the dedication of the participants. With strong security measures and support from authorities, this year's pilgrimage aims to be both safe and meaningful, honouring the memory of Imam Hussein and reinforcing unity within the Shia community.