At least 31 martyred, 100 injured in Karbala stampede

A stampede occurred as pilgrims were performing the sacred ritual of Twereej Run on the Day of Ashura in the holy city of Karbala. 

A stampede occurred as pilgrims were performing the sacred ritual of Twereej Run on the Day of Ashura in the holy city of Karbala. 

At least 31 people embraced martyrdom and about 100 were injured at the entrance of Al-Rajaa Door of Imam Hussein Holy Shrine, officials said on Tuesday. At least 10 among the wounded pilgrims were in a critical condition, according to the Iraqi health ministry.

One million pilgrims participated in the Run that is held every year after Noon Prayer, to mourn the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein, peace be upon them, and his companions in the 680 Battle of Karbala.

Ambulances and volunteers rushed to transfer the wounded to nearby hospitals. 

It is noteworthy that this is the first incident to occur in a ritual on the day of Ashura since a half a century.