Office of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces

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.

Millions of Shiite Muslims participated in the Arbaeen pilgrimage in Karbala, Iraq, amid regional tensions and fears of U.S.-Iran escalation. Iraqi authorities reported over 4.88 million pilgrims entering the country, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi among notable attendees. Iraq faces economic challenges from disrupted oil exports and struggles to disarm Iran-backed militias.