Iraq: Thousands Gather in Balad to Commemorate Imam al-Askari’s Martyrdom

Iraq: Thousands Gather in Balad to Commemorate Imam al-Askari’s Martyrdom
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Over the past three days, large crowds of mourners from across Iraq and other countries gathered at the shrine of Sayyid Muhammad, known as “Sab’ al-Dujail,” in Balad, Salah al-Din province, to mark the anniversary of the martyrdom of his brother, Imam al-Hasan al-Askari (peace be upon them).

The shrine served as a key stop for pilgrims traveling from southern provinces en route to Samarra, where Imam al-Askari is buried. Local and visiting service groups from cities including Holy Karbala and Holy Najaf set up tents around the shrine to provide food and support to the pilgrims.

The commemoration included religious lectures and mourning ceremonies over two consecutive nights, reflecting on the life and sacrifices of Imam al-Askari. Following their visit, many mourners continued their journey to the al-Askari shrine in Samarra, approximately 52 kilometers from Balad.