Millions join Arbaeen pilgrimage in Iraq amid regional tensions and fears of US-Iran escalation

Millions of Shiite Muslims gathered in Karbala, Iraq, for the Arbaeen pilgrimage amid regional tensions and fears of U.S.-Iran escalation. Over 4.88 million pilgrims entered Iraq since the start of the Islamic month of Muharram, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi among notable participants. Reduced numbers of pilgrims from non-Iranian countries were observed due to regional conflicts.