The Arbaeen pilgrimage took place in the Iraqi city of Karbala, drawing millions of participants for the annual observance held 40 days after Ashoura. According to local officials, more than 22 million people entered the city during the event, including approximately 5 million international visitors alongside Iraqis from various regions. The gathering is recognized as one of the world’s largest annual religious assemblies.
The pilgrimage occurred amid significant regional geopolitical tensions and economic challenges facing Iraq. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted Iraqi oil exports, which comprise over 90 percent of the country’s state revenues, placing economic strain on the nation. Additionally, Baghdad is attempting to implement a disarmament initiative targeting the country’s militia network, many of which maintain ties to Iran.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi attended the pilgrimage, highlighting Iraq’s complex diplomatic position between Washington and Tehran. Iranian pilgrims arrived in substantial numbers, though observers noted a reduction in visitors from European, Arab, and other Islamic nations compared to previous years. Attendees attributed the decline to regional instability and ongoing conflicts. The roads to Karbala were lined with volunteer services providing food, water, and medical assistance to pilgrims.
In Iran, Shiite observances of the occasion took on political dimensions in some cases. In Tehran, large processions of mourners traveled along a designated route to a holy shrine, with participants chanting slogans and, according to state media reports, engaging in flag-burning demonstrations. Similar rallies occurred in other Iranian cities and towns. Meanwhile, Kataib Hezbollah, one of the most prominent Iran-backed militias, issued a statement rejecting calls for disarmament and reaffirming its commitment to maintaining armed capabilities.
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