Iraq: Advisory on Al-Bayt (Shia Religious Event)

1. August 25 (Sunday) marks the Shia Islamic religious event “Arbaeen Pilgrimage.” Annually, millions of Shia Muslim pilgrims visit Karbala, a holy site for their faith, often traveling on foot or by other means.
2. The pilgrimage has already begun, with pilgrims traveling not only from within Iraq but also crossing land borders from Iran. Iraqi security forces are currently enhancing security measures.
3. Given the recent tensions in the Middle East and heightened religious sentiments, unexpected incidents cannot be ruled out. Please continue to gather and verify information from multiple sources and take adequate safety precautions.