Iraq Ready to Issue Visas for 2 Million Iranian Arbaeen Pilgrims: Envoy
SHALAMCHEH (Tasnim) – Iraq’s Ambassador to Tehran said the Arab country is prepared to issue 2 million visas for Iranians going on pilgrimage to the holy Iraqi cities of Karbala and Najaf for Arbaeen, the 40th day after the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS), the third Shiite Imam.
Rajih Sabir Aboudi al-Mousavi, the Iraqi envoy to Iran, made the remarks while speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a visit to the border terminal of Shalamcheh in southwestern Iran.
He also noted that applicants will be able to obtain an Iraqi visa up until Wednesday in all Iraqi consulates in Iran.
11 agencies have been established for the issuance of Iraq’s visa in Iran, Mousavi announced, describing it as a successful experience for mutual cooperation with Iran.
1.3 million Iranian pilgrims have so far entered the Iraqi territory to attend the great ceremonies of Arbaeen, the Iraqi ambassador said.
He once again warned against any illegal entry into Iraq, stressing that no one will be allowed to get into the Arab country without a visa.
The Arbaeen mourning ceremony is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
It marks the 40th day after the martyrdom anniversary of the grandson of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), Imam Hussein (AS).
Each year, pilgrims, mainly from Iraq and Iran, travel long routes on foot to Karbala, where the holy shrine of Imam Hussein (AS) is located.
Last year, around 20 million pilgrims from all over the world gathered in Karbala on Arbaeen.
