NAJAF, Iraq — Millions of Shiite Muslims from across the world annually gather in Karbala on Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram on the Islamic calendar, to commemorate the killing of Imam Hussein. But this year, due to pandemic restrictions similar to 2020, only a small number of pilgrims have been able to enter Iraq to attend the ceremonies in the holy cities of Karbala and Najaf.
Ashura will continue for two months. Some countries — and many Iraqi business owners — are urging the Iraqi government to open its borders to all pilgrims.