More than 4.4 million foreign visitors arrive for Karbala pilgrimage, Iraq says

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Security Media Cell said more than 4.4 million foreign visitors had entered the country for the Arbaeen pilgrimage in Karbala. The visitors crossed into Iraq through border crossings and airports and were directed onward to the holy city, the cell said in a statement. Security authorities reported that the flow of pilgrims had continued without interruption and that planned security measures were being applied flexibly. Officials said no security breaches had been recorded during the pilgrimage. Coordination between military and intelligence units and service institutions was described as decisive in maintaining security throughout the pilgrimage period. Karbala hosts the annual Arbaeen march, drawing millions of Shiite pilgrims each year.