Iran, Iraq Agree to Provide Free Internet Services for Arbaeen Pilgrims and Upgrade Communications Infrastructure

Iran, Iraq Agree to Provide Free Internet Services for Arbaeen Pilgrims and Upgrade Communications Infrastructure
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Iran and Iraq have reached an agreement to provide free internet services for pilgrims participating in the Arbaeen pilgrimage of Imam Hussein, as both countries work to strengthen communications infrastructure ahead of the annual religious gathering.

Iran’s Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Sattar Hashemi, announced that technical measures have been implemented to improve network capacity and ensure reliable connectivity for millions of pilgrims traveling to the holy sites in Iraq.

Hashemi said communication links between Iran and Iraq have been doubled in capacity, while international roaming services have been activated for telecom operators. He added that efforts have also been made to address coverage gaps and improve network stability during the peak period of the pilgrimage.

The Iranian minister noted that Tehran and Baghdad are seeking to expand cooperation in the field of information and communications technology, following discussions with Iraqi Communications Minister Mustafa Jabbar Sand on strengthening technical and technological collaboration.

Iran’s Ilam Province, particularly the Mehran border crossing, remains one of the main entry points for Iranian pilgrims traveling to Iraq, with more than 60 percent of Iranian visitors passing through the crossing during the Arbaeen season.

Millions of pilgrims from Iraq and around the world continue to travel toward Karbala to participate in the Arbaeen commemoration, prompting extensive preparations in transportation, security, and public services.