What You Need to Know About the Arbaeen Pilgrimage Amid Rising Tensions

The Arbaeen pilgrimage in Karbala, Iraq, drew millions of Shiite Muslims this year, despite escalating tensions in the region and fears of renewed conflict between the US and Iran. The event, which commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, saw over 4.88 million pilgrims enter Iraq, with significant participation from Iranian nationals. However, the number of foreign attendees appeared to decline, reflecting the impact of ongoing regional conflicts. Amidst these challenges, Iraq grapples with economic difficulties and the complex task of managing militia disarmament. This year's pilgrimage highlights the delicate balance Iraq maintains between its relationships with Washington and Tehran.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 4, 2026, 14:26 IST

Massive Gathering in Karbala

On Tuesday, millions of Shiite Muslims participated in the annual Arbaeen pilgrimage in Karbala, Iraq, amidst escalating regional tensions and concerns regarding a potential intensification of the US-Iran conflict.

Arbaeen occurs 40 days after Ashoura, a day that memorializes the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, during the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD.

According to the operations command responsible for the pilgrimage, over 4.88 million pilgrims have entered Iraq since the beginning of Muharram, which encompasses Ashoura and the lead-up to Arbaeen. This event is recognized as one of the largest religious gatherings globally.

In addition to international pilgrims, many from various Iraqi regions also travel to Karbala for this significant occasion.

Notably, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was among the prominent foreign attendees, arriving in Najaf before proceeding to Karbala to join the pilgrimage.

His visit underscores Iraq's precarious position, balancing its relationships with both Washington and Tehran while trying to remain neutral amid the ongoing conflict.

While Iranian pilgrims were present in large numbers, some observers noted a decline in attendees from other nations.

Aqeel al-Rubaie, a 45-year-old pilgrim from Baghdad, remarked on the prevalence of Iranian flags along the Najaf-Karbala route, contrasting with the reduced visibility of flags from European, Arab, and other Islamic nations.

He attributed this decline to the ongoing war and regional developments that have impacted foreign and Arab pilgrim attendance.

Another pilgrim, Hassan al-Sarai, 35, echoed these sentiments, stating that Iranian flags dominated the landscape both on the roads and within Karbala itself.

Numerous volunteer groups provided essential services such as food, water, and medical assistance along the pilgrimage routes leading to Karbala.

This year's pilgrimage occurs against a backdrop of challenging economic conditions in Iraq, exacerbated by the war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has severely affected oil exports. With over 90% of Iraq's state revenue reliant on oil, the economy remains highly susceptible to disruptions.

Additionally, Baghdad faces the complex challenge of disarming various militias, many of which are backed by Iran.

Kataib Hezbollah, a powerful Iran-aligned militia, issued a statement during Arbaeen, rejecting disarmament calls and affirming its commitment to maintaining what it terms the 'weapons of resistance.'