In Karbala, Ashura becomes a tribute to the thousands of Iranians killed in the war

Thousands of Iranian pilgrims traveled to the holy city of Karbala, Iraq, for the Ashura commemorations, which this year included a tribute to the victims of the recent war between Iran, the United States, and Israel. Many carried portraits of loved ones killed during the conflict, giving a particularly poignant dimension to this religious celebration.

Ashura, celebrated on the tenth day of Muharram, is the holiest day in the Shiite Muslim calendar. It commemorates the death of Imam Hussein, grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who fell in battle at Karbala in 680 AD. Every year, faithful from many countries converge on this Iraqi city to participate in the mourning ceremonies.

This edition comes at an exceptional time. According to Reuters, at least 3,000 people were killed in Iran before a fragile ceasefire came into effect in April, followed this month by the signing of a framework agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at ending the conflict.

In the streets of Karbala, processions drew crowds carrying portraits of Iranian victims. Among the images on display was that of the late Iranian Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, whom Reuters reports was killed on February 28, the first day of the war. Flags bearing his image accompanied the processions of mourners.

The conflict also claimed lives in Iranian strikes targeting Israeli and American bases, as well as some Gulf states. This year's ceremonies thus reflect the profound grief left by months of fighting in the region.

Around the shrine of Imam Abbas, worshippers participated in the traditional Ashura processions, accompanied by drums and mourning rituals, including self-flagellation practiced by some. In an atmosphere of solemnity, the memory of Shiite religious figures mingled with that of the victims of the recent war.