NPR
Despite Mideast wars, 20 million gather in Iraq for Shia pilgrimage
Monday, August 10, 2026
More than 20 million Shia pilgrims gathered in Karbala, Iraq for the Arbaeen festival. The pilgrimage took place amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East region. Arbaeen marks the end of a 40-day mourning period following Ashura, a significant date in Shia Islam observed in the Islamic month of Muharram.
Original reporting: https://www.npr.org/2026/08/10/g-s1-137832/iraq-shia-pilgrimage-shia-war