Pilgrims begin Arbaeen march from Iraq’s southernmost point in Basra

BASRA — Shia pilgrims set out Sunday from Ras al-Bisha in Basra’s Fao district on one of the longest foot journeys to Karbala for the annual Arbaeen pilgrimage, marking the start of a 15- to 20-day trek that draws participants from across Iraq and neighboring countries.

Arbaeen, which falls 40 days after Ashura, commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The event is among the largest religious gatherings in the world, with millions of pilgrims walking to Karbala, where Imam Hussein is buried.

“Every year, we gather in Ras al-Bisha and begin our march toward Karbala,” said Jouda Ashour, a participant from the area. “The entire journey can take between 15 to 20 days as people walk in the footsteps of Imam Hussein.”

Ali Athab, head of the “Tear of Ruqayya” procession from the Hartha area north of Basra, said his delegation had arrived in Fao to begin the long walk. “We will now head toward the Master of Martyrs,” he said, referring to Imam Hussein. “May God accept from us and from you.”

Athab explained that the group spends four days walking from Fao to Hartha, where they then operate service tents for seven days before continuing the journey, which takes another 14 days on foot to Karbala.

The route from Ras al-Bisha, Iraq’s southernmost point near the Gulf, has become a symbolic starting location for many pilgrims seeking to complete the entire distance by foot. Local residents and religious organizations along the way often provide food, water, rest stops, and medical support.