“The Iraqi government’s capability to aptly welcome and host pilgrims and the simultaneous command of the big battle for [the key northern city of] Mosul shows the high strength of the country,” the Iranian vice president said.
The top Iranian official made the remarks upon his arrival in the holy Iraqi city of Najaf on Sunday at the head of a delegation to march toward the holy city of Karbala to perform the rituals of Arba’een the 40th day after the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (PBUH), the third Shia Imam.
Jahangiri also joined pilgrims to march toward the holy Iraqi city of Karbala on November 20, 2016 to perform the rituals of Arba’een.
The Iranian First Vice President also thanked the Iraqi government and nation for hosting millions of pilgrims, including Iranians.
Arba’een marks 40 days since Ashura when Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, was martyred in the desert plains of Karbala along with his 72 companions 14 centuries ago.
Arba’een is one of the most revered religious occasions on the Islamic calendar.
Jahangir once again reaffirmed Iran’s full support for the Iraqi government and nation in their fight against terrorism.
In a telephone conversation with Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi on Saturday, Jahangiri expressed hope that the strategic city of Mosul would be fully recaptured from Daesh Takfiri terrorists. He also commended great achievements by the Iraqi forces and nation, made with the support of the Baghdad’s government.
It is worthy to mention that Imam Khomeini, the late founder of the Islamic Republic in his speeches and historic messages stressed to keep the divine message of Ashura alive. Imam also said that the Islamic Revolution under his wise leadership had been inspired by Ashura.