In separate telephone conversations with Iraq’s interior minister, chief of staff of the Iraqi Joint Forces, and a top commander of Hashd al-Shaabi (Popular Mobilization Units) on Saturday, General Hatami praised the Iraqi officials for ensuring security and order during the Arbaeen ceremonies.
Describing the organization of Arbaeen processions as a symbol of fraternity, solidarity and strong bonds between the Iranian and Iraqi nations, Hatami said the congregation has turned into a thorn in the side of the enemies of Islam.
Arbaeen, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, comes 40 days after Ashura, the martyrdom anniversary of the third Shiite Imam, Imam Hussein (AS).
Iranian Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli announced earlier this week that around 3.5 million Iranians have travelled to Iraq during this year’s Arbaeen season.