Iranian pilgrims flood Iraq for first Arbaeen since war

AI Summary

Thousands of Iranian pilgrims crossed into Iraq to observe Arbaeen, the key Shia religious event, amid regional tensions. Demonstrators displayed anti-US sentiments as fresh strikes rattled the Middle East, drawing Iraq into ongoing conflicts.

Under a blazing sun, clad in black and clutching portraits of their slain leader Ali Khamenei, Iranian pilgrims streamed across the border into Iraq to observe the Arbaeen, the most revered event in Shia Islam. Some stamped on a portrait of US President Donald Trump, others raised their fists or flashed victory signs, as fresh strikes rattled the region, drawing Iraq back into the Middle East war. Amir, a 55-year-old pick-up driver, has been attending the Arbaeen ceremonies in Iraq for years, but said that this time is different.