Nearly 4.5 million foreign pilgrims from 172 countries have entered Iraq to participate in the annual Arbaeen mourning ceremonies, according to Iraqi security officials, as authorities implement extensive security and logistical measures ahead of the event.

Saad Maan, head of the Iraqi Security Media Cell, told Rudaw on Saturday that 4,435,492 foreign pilgrims had arrived in Iraq so far, with the number expected to increase before the Arbaeen commemoration on Tuesday.

Arbaeen marks the end of a 40-day mourning period for Imam Hussein, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The occasion is regarded as one of the world's largest annual religious gatherings, attracting millions of Shiite Muslims from across the globe.

Pilgrims from Iran, Lebanon, Turkey, Kuwait, and many other countries undertake the nearly 80-kilometer pilgrimage on foot from Najaf to Karbala, symbolizing devotion and remembrance.

To ensure the safety of participants, Iraqi authorities have strengthened security operations throughout the country. Interior Ministry spokesperson Mohammed al-Hasuon said advanced technologies are being used to enhance security while reducing reliance on manpower.

"Smart surveillance cameras, a unified control room, and a traffic density analysis system are being utilized," he said.

Officials at the Imam Hussein Shrine also announced that more than 2,500 surveillance cameras have been installed around the shrine to monitor crowds and support security operations.

In the Kurdistan Region, more than 7,000 pilgrims have crossed into Iraq through the Haji Omeran border crossing over the past 15 days.

"We came from Tehran. This is our third time coming. My wife and I agreed to travel for the pilgrimage to Karbala and Najaf. The reception has been very good. We chose Tamarchin because of its pleasant weather," Iranian pilgrim Raza Shaisehpour told Rudaw after entering the Kurdistan Region.

Another pilgrim, Marhamat Mojarloo, expressed hope for peace in the region.

"God willing, peace will prevail and prosperity will return. I ask our leaders to support the people and for the war to end," she said, referring to the ongoing conflict involving her country and the United States.

Border traffic through the Kurdistan Region has fluctuated in recent years. Approximately 200,000 pilgrims entered Iraq via the Haji Omeran and Bashmakh border crossings in 2024, while the figure fell to around 100,000 the following year after the 12-Day conflict between Israel and Iran.

To facilitate the pilgrimage, Kurdish authorities have expanded services for visitors, providing free transportation, drinking water, meals, cooling stations, ambulance services, and additional passport control facilities to ensure smoother and faster movement from border crossings to departure points for Karbala.