Senior cleric thanks Iraq for hospitality during Arbaeen

Speaking during this week's Friday Prayers sermon in Tehran, Hojjat-ol-Islam Mohammad Javad Haj Ali-Akbari described Arbaeen, which is the commemoration of the fortieth day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (a.s.), as symbolizing unity among Muslims when their unity is on full display. He said that the Arbaeen procession this year was of great importance, especially because during that great epic, red flags symbolizing calls for revenge for the blood of the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution could be seen in the hands of a huge number of marchers en route to Karbala.

"We sincerely thank the dear people of Iraq, the government of that country, the tribes, the custodians of the holy shrines, and all those who hosted the pilgrims of Imam Hussain (a.s.), especially the Iranian pilgrims, with love and dignity," the senior cleric said. "This generous hospitality is a sign of love for the Master of the Martyrs (a.s.) and a factor in strengthening the unity of the Islamic nation. We hope that God Almighty will grant the Iraqi nation increasing honor, blessing, and success," Hojjat-ol-Islam Ali-Akbari further said.

He also called on women to preserve Hijab as an Islamic tradition which goes back in history to the time of Hazrat Zahra (s.a.) and other great Muslim women as women's role models.

According to Mehr News, the cleric's remarks were part of his weekly Friday sermon, addressing current religious and social issues. The report added that the Arbaeen pilgrimage this year saw a significant participation, with millions of pilgrims from around the world, particularly from Iran, traveling to Karbala.