Arbaeen Pilgrims Chant Anti-US, Anti-Israel Slogans at Imam Hussein Shrine

KARBALA, Jul. 31 (MNA) – Video footage has emerged showing Arbaeen pilgrims chanting slogans against the United States and Israel at the holy shrine of Imam Hussein (AS) in Karbala, Iraq.

The footage, captured during the ongoing Arbaeen pilgrimage, depicts groups of pilgrims raising their voices in unison with chants of 'Down with US' and 'Down with Israel'. The slogans were recited within the precincts of the shrine, a site of profound religious significance for Shia Muslims worldwide.

Arbaeen marks the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (s), who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The pilgrimage is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, drawing millions of devotees each year to Karbala.

The chanting of political slogans during religious observances is not uncommon in Iran and among Shia communities, reflecting the intertwining of religious devotion with political stances, particularly regarding US and Israeli policies in the region.

According to Mehr News Agency, the video was released on July 31, 2026, and has been widely shared on social media platforms. The report did not specify the exact number of participants or provide additional context about the demonstration.