Pilgrims Mark ‘International Day of Supporting the Askari Imams’ in Samarra

Pilgrims Mark ‘International Day of Supporting the Askari Imams’ in Samarra
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Large crowds of pilgrims are set to gather on the last Friday of the holy month of Ramadan to commemorate the “International Day of Supporting the Askari Imams” in the holy city of Samarra.

The annual event is expected to draw participants from across Iraq, with organizers anticipating a significant turnout. The commemoration is being coordinated by the public relations office of Grand Ayatullah Shirazi in Karbala, in cooperation with the Al-Rasul Al-Azam Foundation.

The observance is held in line with guidance from the Supreme Marja, who has emphasized the importance of honoring and supporting the legacy of the Askari Imams (peace be upon them both), particularly on the final Friday of Ramadan.

The event was first established in 2007 following the bombing of the shrine dome of the Al-Askari Shrine, which marked a turning point in its annual commemoration. Since then, it has become a symbolic occasion for renewing allegiance to the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them).

Preparations for this year’s gathering include organizing transportation for pilgrims, with hundreds of vehicles set to carry visitors from Karbala to Samarra. Last year’s event saw around 16,000 participants, and organizers expect attendance to increase significantly this year.

Organizers say the commemoration represents a message of loyalty and unity, reflecting continued efforts to honor the memory of the Askari Imams and uphold related religious traditions.