
Arbaeen Pilgrims Carry Red Flags in Revenge for Martyred Leader
Three days before Arbaeen, pilgrims walking from Najaf to Karbala carry red flags symbolizing revenge for the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.
Published on 1 August 2026
SaveArbaeen Pilgrims Carry Red Flags in Revenge for Martyred Leader
On the occasion of Arbaeen, the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (a.s.), millions of pilgrims are converging on the holy city of Karbala. This year, the pilgrimage carries a special significance as pilgrims are expressing their solidarity with the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.
According to Mehr News Agency, three days before the anniversary of Arbaeen, pilgrims on the way from Najaf to Karbala are carrying red flags. These flags symbolize the revenge for the martyrdom of Ayatollah Khamenei, who was assassinated in a recent incident. The red flags are a traditional symbol of mourning and a call for justice in Shia culture.
The report highlights that the pilgrims are walking the historic route between the two holy cities, a journey that is part of the Arbaeen pilgrimage rituals. The presence of red flags among the pilgrims underscores the deep emotional and religious sentiments attached to this year's Arbaeen.
Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei was the Supreme Leader of Iran and a prominent Shia religious authority. His martyrdom has sparked widespread mourning and condemnation across the Muslim world. The Arbaeen pilgrimage, which commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (a.s.), has become a platform for expressing political and religious messages.
Mehr News Agency reported that the pilgrims are carrying the red flags as a symbol of their commitment to seek justice for the martyred leader. The report added that the atmosphere among the pilgrims is one of grief and determination, as they remember both Imam Hussain (a.s.) and Ayatollah Khamenei.
The Arbaeen pilgrimage is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, drawing millions of participants from various countries. This year's event is particularly poignant due to the recent martyrdom of the Iranian leader, which has added a new dimension to the traditional mourning rituals.
Photos
13 photosSource: Mehr News — Read original story












