17 Aug 2024 | 05:09 PM UTC
Iraq: Authorities to almost certainly increase security nationwide for Arba'een pilgrimage Aug. 25-26
Authorities in Iraq to almost certainly increase security nationwide for Arba'een pilgrimage Aug. 25-26. Transport disruptions likely.
Iraqi authorities will almost certainly increase security nationwide in anticipation of the annual Shi'a Arba'een pilgrimage on Aug. 25-26. During this pilgrimage, millions of pilgrims, including from Iraq and around the world, will converge on the holy city of Karbala.
Tens of thousands of security personnel and allied Shi'a militias will deploy to Karbala and roads leading to the city to safeguard pilgrims. Heightened security is accordingly likely in Baghdad, Babil, and An-Najaf governorates. The increased security is mainly in response to the threat from Sunni extremists, particularly the Islamic State (IS); militant attacks cannot be ruled out.
Transport disruptions are likely as officials will probably ban the use of vehicles in Karbala during the pilgrimage. Authorities have announced that they will use a dedicated fleet of buses during Arba'een to mitigate heavy traffic; the buses will probably move people from gathering points on the outskirts of Karbala to the Imam Hussein and Al-Abbas shrines. Authorities may impose curfew measures and other restrictions on short notice according to their assessment of prevailing security conditions.
Stay away from large crowds and sites where pilgrims gather unless observing Arba'een. Allow considerable extra time to reach destinations in Shi'a-populated areas due to increased security and heavy congestion, especially on main routes leading to Karbala. Confirm hotel reservations, transport bookings, and business appointments. Respect local customs; restrict photography, and avoid sensitive topics of discussion, including religious and political issues.
Arba'een marks the end of the 40-day mourning period for Imam Hussein ibn Ali, whose martyrdom at the Battle of Karbala led to the schism between Shi'a and Sunni Muslims. Terrorist attacks targeting Shi'a pilgrims have been relatively common in the past, and security continues to be a major concern.
Sectarian tensions could be high, and disputes over religious issues may turn violent. Acknowledging and abiding by Shi'a traditions is important, as perceived affronts to religious conventions have led to violent confrontations with non-Shi'a individuals, including foreigners, in the past. Many Shi'a persons may carry banners or display posters depicting Imam Hussein or religious verses during the pilgrimage; removing or defiling these items in any way could spark mob violence.
