Tens of thousands of pilgrims enter Iraq for Ashura commemorations

BAGHDAD — Tens of thousands of Arab and foreign pilgrims have entered Iraq through land and air border crossings in recent days to commemorate Ashura in Karbala and other religious sites, the Interior Ministry announced Saturday.

Miqdad Miri, head of the ministry’s Relations and Media Directorate, said border points across the country had seen a significant influx of visitors ahead of the annual Shia observance.

Miri said all security and service agencies, under the direct supervision of the interior minister, had “mobilized efforts to receive pilgrims smoothly and ensure a secure and appropriate environment for the religious occasion.”

He added that procedures were being carried out with “high discipline” in line with a pre-established plan, and noted that coordination was ongoing among security commands, passport directorates, border authorities, and police forces in key areas to support the safe movement and arrival of pilgrims.

Ashura, marked on the 10th day of Muharram—the first month of the Islamic calendar—commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. Shia Muslims observe the occasion with mourning rituals that may include self-flagellation, processions, theatrical reenactments of the Battle of Karbala, and elegy recitations.

The Iraqi Cabinet has declared Sunday, July 6, a public holiday for all ministries and government institutions in observance of Ashura.