Palestinian Flag Emerges as Unifying Symbol Along Arbaeen Pilgrimage Path

According to SAEDNEWS, The 80-kilometer route connecting the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala in southern Iraq is currently transformed into a vibrant expression of solidarity with Palestine. As millions participate in the Arbaeen pilgrimage, the streets are flooded with Palestinian symbols in a powerful protest against the ongoing Israeli war crimes and atrocities in the besieged Gaza Strip. In 2023, over 20 million people joined this sacred ritual, emphasizing its significance in the face of current global challenges.

At the start of the pilgrimage, a call to the Al-Aqsa center has been erected to symbolize the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Israeli-occupied Jerusalem (al-Quds). Throughout the journey, prominent figures have delivered impassioned speeches, while wounded Iraqi resistance members have honored injured Palestinians from Gaza. The governor of Karbala, visibly displaying his support, has donned the iconic Palestinian Keffiyeh, symbolizing unity in a shared struggle.

The governor is not alone; pilgrims from around the world have embraced the Palestinian scarf, highlighting an enduring legacy of resistance. During the historic battle of Karbala, Imam Hussein (AS) chose dignity over surrender to tyranny—a sentiment echoed by Palestinians today, who refuse to capitulate to what they describe as a criminal regime. Along the Najaf-Karbala route, the Palestinian flag is prominently featured, waved by pilgrims and displayed by countless vendors offering food and services.

This year’s Arbaeen observance has seen remarkable participation from hundreds of Palestinians, acting as organizers and creating a profound symbol of Shia-Sunni unity at a time when external forces, particularly the U.S. and Israel, attempt to create division within the Muslim community through their cyber strategies.

Social media platforms have become a canvas for this pro-Palestinian momentum, with freedom-seeking individuals around the world sharing and reposting images from the Arbaeen processions. The pilgrimage, which marks 40 days since Ashura, serves as a powerful reminder of the lessons derived from Imam Hussein's sacrifice. Despite occurring over 1,400 years ago, the themes of unwavering resistance and dignity resonate deeply today.

Imam Hussein and his 72 companions faced overwhelming odds, refusing to submit to a tyrannical ruler amid both violence and deprivation. Like Hussein, Palestinians in Gaza are experiencing a brutal siege and similarly refuse to raise the white flag of surrender. The resilience of Gaza’s people reflects the spirit of the Arbaeen pilgrimage, compelling participants to raise the Palestinian flag during the world’s largest annual gathering.

This unique pilgrimage has transformed into a significant global event, uniting people from diverse nationalities and igniting the flames of Ashura into a powerful movement. The Arbaeen ceremony provides a crucial platform for amplifying the voices of the oppressed Palestinian people on an international stage, despite the challenges of media censorship and the hindrances imposed by the Israeli propaganda machine.

Historically, the Arbaeen ritual may not garner the international coverage it merits due to prevailing internal and external political dynamics, particularly as the pilgrimage emphasizes themes of unity and resistance. The gathering stands as a testament to the strength and solidarity of people in West Asia, countering efforts by the U.S. to cultivate division through military intervention.

As we reflect on the significance of this year’s pilgrimage, it becomes clear that the Arbaeen is not only a religious observance but also a collective assertion of justice and freedom for the Palestinian people.

first published on tehran times