SAEDNEWS: The head of Iran's Central Headquarters for Arbaeen announced that all border crossings leading to Iraq are fully operational and ready to facilitate the smooth entry and exit of pilgrims traveling for the Arbaeen pilgrimage.
According to Saednews, Iran has confirmed that all major western border crossings are fully prepared to handle the large number of pilgrims traveling to Iraq for the upcoming Arbaeen pilgrimage.
Speaking on Sunday, Ali Akbar Pourjamshidian said the Shalamcheh, Chazzabeh, Mehran, Khosravi, Bashmaq, and Tamarchin border crossings are operational and capable of accommodating travelers. He stated that there are no significant issues expected to affect the movement of pilgrims.
Pourjamshidian acknowledged that some border crossings faced security concerns during the recent conflict involving the United States and Israel. However, he said authorities have resolved those challenges, and recent inspections found no major problems that could disrupt travel.
He encouraged pilgrims to use different border crossings instead of relying on a single route to help reduce congestion. Travelers were also advised to select the crossing closest to their home in order to shorten waiting times, especially during the summer season.
Arbaeen is one of the world's largest annual religious gatherings. It commemorates the 40th day after Ashura, marking the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), the third Imam in Shia Islam.
Each year, millions of pilgrims from Iran and many other countries travel to the Iraqi city of Karbala to pay their respects at the shrine of Imam Hussein (AS).
To support the pilgrimage, Iran and Iraq have strengthened cooperation through agreements designed to simplify travel procedures, improve transportation and public services, enhance medical and logistical assistance, reinforce border security, and facilitate the movement of pilgrims.
The 2026 Arbaeen pilgrimage is expected to conclude with large mourning ceremonies in Karbala on August 4.
