Millions Commemorate Martyrdom Anniversary of Imam Ali Across Iraq and Beyond
Millions Commemorate Martyrdom Anniversary of Imam Ali Across Iraq and Beyond
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Millions of mourners gathered in Iraq and several other countries to commemorate the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (peace be upon him), the Commander of the Faithful and the most revered figure in Islamic history, marking the occasion with mourning ceremonies, prayers, and religious gatherings.
In the holy city of Najaf, large crowds converged at the Shrine of Imam Ali (peace be upon him), where processions of mourners from across Iraq and abroad filled the courtyard and surrounding streets. Participants recited elegies and performed traditional lamentations recalling the events of the Imam’s martyrdom after he was struck while leading the dawn prayer at the historic Great Mosque of Kufa more than fourteen centuries ago. Mourners also recalled widely reported phrases associated with the tragedy, including “By God, the pillars of guidance have been destroyed,” and the Imam’s reported final words, “By the Lord of the Kaaba, I have succeeded.”
Religious processions and mourning gatherings were also held in Kufa, where visitors gathered at the mosque associated with the Imam’s final moments, reflecting on his legacy of justice and devotion.
In Samarra, mourners organized a symbolic funeral procession within the courtyard of the Al‑Askari Shrine (peace be upon him). Participants carried a symbolic coffin representing the Imam’s funeral, reenacting historical accounts of the secret night burial conducted by his sons, Imam Hasan ibn Ali and Imam Husayn ibn Ali (peace be upon them both).
Meanwhile, in Karbala, thousands of believers gathered at the Shrines of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) and the Honourable Abbas ibn Ali (peace be upon him) to observe the second night of Laylat al-Qadr, which coincides with the anniversary of Imam Ali’s martyrdom (peace be upon him). Worshippers performed special prayers, recited supplications, and participated in Quran-raising rituals in the area between the two shrines.
Commemorations also extended beyond Iraq. Cultural and educational events were held in several provinces of Yemen, where religious scholars and community leaders delivered lectures highlighting Imam Ali’s (peace be upon him) legacy of justice, leadership, and defense of the oppressed.
In Kandahar, Afghanistan, Shia worshippers gathered at the Sayyida Fatima al‑Zahra Mosque to mark the second night of Laylat al-Qadr and remember the martyrdom of Imam Ali. The ceremony included recitation of Quranic verses, special supplications associated with the sacred nights of Ramadan, and elegies recalling the Imam’s life and teachings.
In a statement marking the occasion, Shia Waves Agency extended condolences to the Shia community worldwide and to the Awaited Imam (may Allah hasten his reappearance), while also offering condolences to senior religious authorities, including Grand Ayatullah Shirazi.
