Iraq says Arbaeen pilgrimage arrivals exceed 1.8 million

BAGHDAD, Iraq — More than 1.8 million pilgrims from 172 countries have entered Iraq for the Arbaeen commemoration marking the death of Imam Hussein, the head of Iraq's Security Media Cell, Brigadier General Saad Maan, said on Thursday. Maan said the figure covers the period from the 1st of Muharram in the Hijri calendar through Wednesday night, when pilgrims arriving to commemorate Imam Hussein converged on the holy city of Karbala and other sacred sites. The Security Media Cell drew attention to the international scale of the pilgrimage and said the safe reception of millions of visitors reflects the success of Iraqi security forces. According to the statement, security operations are being carried out under integrated security and organizational plans with the direct support of Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ali Zaidani. The Supreme Authority for Husseiniya Processions and the Higher Committee for Arbaeen Visits are coordinating with relevant ministries and agencies on field operations, it added. The statement said security forces, supporting ministries, service commissions, the general secretariats of the holy shrines, owners of Hussayniyas (congregation halls) and volunteers have been providing continuous services to pilgrims from their entry into the country to their arrival at the holy sites.