More than 21 million Shia Muslims gathered in Karbala for the annual Arbaeen pilgrimage to mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussein. The pilgrimage, which is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, took place this year amid the war in Gaza. Pilgrims displayed their support for Palestine by holding up Palestinian flags during the event.
The city of Karbala, where Imam Hussein and his brother Abbas are buried, became the center of the Shia world during this time. Pilgrims expressed their sorrow and grief by weeping and wailing in remembrance of Hussein, who was killed in a battle in Karbala in 680.
The total number of pilgrims this year surpassed 21 million, with about 3.5 million coming from Iran. The presence of Palestinian flags among the pilgrims was a symbol of solidarity with the people of Gaza against the actions of the Israelis. Mohammed al-Tamimi, a 32-year-old pilgrim, stated that Muslims stand united against the Zionist actions and crimes in Gaza.
The Arbaeen commemorations have always taken place amid tight security, and last year drew about 22 million pilgrims. Iran sent the largest number of foreign visitors, with 4 million attendees. The events in Karbala serve as a powerful symbol of unity and support for those suffering in conflict zones like Gaza.
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