SAEDNEWS: Iran, Iraq and Pakistan have forged an unprecedented security and logistics pact for the upcoming Arbaeen pilgrimage, framing the faith‑driven event as a show of regional unity against recent Israeli strikes.
According to Saed News, the interior ministers of Iran, Iraq and Pakistan met in Tehran’s Prophet Mohammad Hall on July 14 to hammer out a comprehensive plan ensuring the safety and smooth passage of millions of Shia pilgrims along the 80‑kilometre Najaf–Karbala route. While the summit underscored Arbaeen’s spiritual significance, it also served as a platform for condemning the Israeli “aggression” that Tehran says cost civilian lives during a 12‑day campaign.
Eskandar Momeni, Iran’s interior minister, opened the session by lauding joint technical committees for finalizing a protocol on consular assistance, border controls and transportation networks. “Our shared will guarantees Arbaeen will be held securely, magnificently and in an organized manner,” he declared, elevating the trilateral partnership to “strategic level.”
Iraqi Interior Minister Abdul Amir al‑Shammari highlighted Baghdad’s preparations under Prime Minister Sudani, noting that facilities which hosted over five million foreign pilgrims last year—including three million from Iran—are now fully equipped. He urged Pakistan to coordinate return flows and called for an on‑the‑ground technical committee to oversee developments during the pilgrimage itself.
Mohsin Naqvi, Pakistan’s interior minister, delivered a message from his prime minister and army chief affirming support for Iran’s “legitimate self‑defense,” congratulating Tehran on its “triumph against the Zionist regime.” He pledged Islamabad’s full cooperation in bolstering pilgrim welfare.
In parallel talks, President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that the “Zionist regime seeks to divide Muslims,” urging Islamic leaders to counter “through unity and solidarity.” Together, the three nations aim to project Arbaeen not only as a spiritual journey but as a symbol of collective resilience in the face of external threats.
