Medical readiness enhanced ahead of Arbaeen pilgrimage: IRCS official

Medical readiness enhanced ahead of Arbaeen pilgrimage: IRCS official
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The Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) has enhanced its medical readiness for this year’s Arbaeen pilgrimage in Iraq, Abna news agency reported quoting the organization’s Secretary-General, Meisam Afshar. The IRCS has deployed 23 helicopters and one aircraft specifically for emergency medical evacuations during the event.

For this year’s pilgrimage, 58 IRCS-affiliated hospitals and clinics will be operational throughout Iraq, including permanent facilities in Najaf and Karbala. Additional centers will open progressively depending on the volume of pilgrims. Furthermore, 150 emergency vehicles—comprising rescue trucks, ambulances, and command units—have been assigned to support the operation.

Around 8,000 volunteers will provide assistance, with main medical command centers located in Najaf and supplementary hubs in Karbala, Kadhimiya, and along the pilgrimage routes. Medical supplies and equipment have been pre-positioned based on previous years’ demands, with most items already packed and ready at Imam Ali (peace be upon him) Hospital in Najaf, while the remainder will be distributed before the pilgrimage begins.

Afshar also noted that 60,000 trained volunteer responders will be stationed at border crossings and key transit points within Iran.

Arbaeen is a significant religious observance for Shia Muslims, marking the 40th day after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him), the grandson of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him and his pure family) and the third Shia imam. It is the largest annual pilgrimages globally, drawing millions of Shia Muslims, along with many Sunnis and followers of other faiths, who walk to Karbala from various Iraqi cities and neighboring countries. This year, Arbaeen falls on August 14, with an estimated 4 million Iranians expected to participate.