Tehran: Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni declared that the Arbaeen pilgrimage serves as a religious and international event that embodies Islamic unity. During a meeting held in Tehran with his counterparts from Iraq and Pakistan, Momeni highlighted their collective aim to ensure the pilgrimage is conducted in a safe, organized, and respectful manner.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Arbaeen marks the 40th day following the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (PBUH), the third Shia Imam, and his 72 companions. Imam Hussein is buried in Karbala, Iraq, a site where millions of Muslims gather annually for the Arbaeen pilgrimage. This year, the event will take place on August 14. Momeni expressed gratitude towards Iraq for its role in hosting the pilgrims and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in travel, security, and service arrangements.
The ministers from Iran, Iraq, and Pakistan agreed to enhance their coordination efforts and signed an agreement to implement their plans collectively. In addition to addressing the pilgrimage, Momeni condemned recent Israeli actions on Iranian soil, describing them as violations of international law. He thanked Iraq and Pakistan for their condemnation of Israeli aggression, underscoring that their unity demonstrates how nations can support each other during challenging times.