Australian Muslim Shias travel to Iraq for Ashura despite IS threat

Hundreds of Australian Muslim Shiites are expected to make the pilgrimage to Karbala, although this year the Australian government is warning worshippers to think twice about their travel plans.

Many Australian Shia Muslims will be travelling to Iraq next week to fulfil their pilgrimage dreams, saying they are not concerned about the so-called Islamic State terrorists.

The Iraqi government has stepped up security measures in Karbala and Najaf in an effort to protect local and visiting pilgrims.

Every year, millions of Muslims around the world mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, peace be upon him, and his 72 faithful companions on Ashura, the tenth day of the first month of the lunar calendar year Muharram.