IFP Exclusive

Over 3.3 Iranian Pilgrims Leave Iran to Attend March of Arba’een

An Iranian official says around 3.3 million pilgrims have so far left the country to take part in the Arba’een march which is held every year on the fortieth day after Ashura on which Imam Hussein (AS) and his companions were martyred 14 centuries ago.

Deputy Interior Minister Hossein Zolfaqari said in a meeting with Iraqi officials that the Islamic Republic is ready to send vehicles to help in the transportation of pilgrims to the holy cities.

He hailed the implementation of a visa waiver agreement between Iran and Iraq, saying that since the beginning of holy month of Muharram over three million pilgrims have left Iran, of whom 1.5 million have returned.

“I thank the Iraqi government for its contribution to the reopening of the Khosravi border crossing, the warm welcoming of the Iraqi people, and the efforts of the government and all the forces that have provided the security during Arba’een march,” reiterated Zolfaqari.

He highlighted that Iran “lifted visa requirement for Iranian and Iraqi pilgrims for 65 days, but the bulk of the burden was shouldered by the Iraqi side.”

He said at some points the Iraqi transport facilities were not enough to meet the needs. “We have announced we will send transport vehicles to help at the Mehran-Khosravi border.”

“We are now ready to provide as many vehicles as needed to assist in transferring the pilgrims.”

“We all need to be careful with the trickeries, and at the same time, we urge the pilgrims to be careful,” underlined Zolfaqari, noting that some are not happy about the good ties between Iran and Iraq.

IFP Editorial Staff

The IFP Editorial Staff is composed of dozens of skilled journalists, news-writers, and analysts whose works are edited and published by experienced editors specialized in Iran News. The editor of each IFP Service is responsible for the report published by the Iran Front Page (IFP) news website, and can be contacted through the ways mentioned in the "IFP Editorial Staff" section.

Recent Posts

Unscheduled visit by Qatari prime minister to Tehran sparks speculation

Reports emerged by Iranian daily Donya-e Eqtesad suggest that the Qatari Prime Minister and Minister…

18 hours ago

ICC issues arrest warrant for Netanyahu, Gallant for ‘war crimes’ in Gaza

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu,…

18 hours ago

Iran to respond to Europe’s “non-technical” move: Foreign Minister

As France, Germany, and the United Kingdom submit an anti-Iran draft resolution to the International…

18 hours ago

President Pezeshkian criticizes western hypocrisy on human rights

During his visit to Sistan and Baluchestan province, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian delivered sharp criticism…

19 hours ago

Nearly 90 killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza

Israel has unleashed a series of air attacks on the Gaza Strip that killed nearly…

19 hours ago

Anti-Iran human rights resolution at UNGA politically-motivated: Spokesman

Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei has censured as politically-motivated and unjustified the adoption of a…

19 hours ago