Iraq Hosts Massive Arbaeen Pilgrimage Under Shadow of Regional Tensions

Millions of Shiite Muslims gathered in Iraq's holy city of Karbala on Tuesday to observe Arbaeen, one of the world's largest annual religious gatherings, as the country remains on edge over rising regional tensions and fears of renewed conflict between the United States and Iran.

Arbaeen is observed 40 days after Ashoura, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Every year, millions of pilgrims from Iraq and abroad travel to Karbala, many covering long distances on foot as an act of devotion. Volunteer groups line the routes, offering free food, water, medical aid and shelter to pilgrims.

According to Iraq's operations command overseeing the pilgrimage, more than 4.88 million foreign pilgrims had entered the country since the start of the Islamic month of Muharram, with arrivals continuing until Arbaeen. Iraqi authorities had launched extensive security, transport and border management plans weeks in advance to handle the massive crowds.

Among the prominent visitors was Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who traveled from Najaf to Karbala to take part in the pilgrimage. His visit highlighted Iraq's delicate position as it tries to maintain ties with both Washington and Tehran while avoiding being drawn deeper into the ongoing conflict.

Although Iranian pilgrims arrived in large numbers, several worshippers said they noticed fewer visitors from Arab, European and other countries compared with previous years. Many blamed the ongoing regional conflict and security concerns for the lower turnout.

The pilgrimage also comes as Iraq faces growing economic pressure following disruptions to oil exports linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. With more than 90 percent of government revenue coming from oil, the country remains vulnerable to prolonged instability. At the same time, Baghdad continues efforts to disarm Iran-backed militias, though Kataib Hezbollah has publicly rejected calls to surrender its weapons.

In neighboring Iran, thousands who could not travel to Iraq marked Arbaeen with processions and mourning ceremonies. Some gatherings also featured anti-US and anti-Israel slogans, reflecting the heightened political atmosphere surrounding this year's pilgrimage.