Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi issued a message of thanks to the Iraqi government and people. Araghchi expressed his gratitude to all Iraqi officials, clerics, tribal leaders and security forces who hosted the historic funeral ceremonies for the martyred leader in Najaf and Karbala.
The Iranian minister stated that the participation of millions of Iraqis and the hospitality shown constituted a unique example of Islamic brotherhood and solidarity. Araghchi emphasized that these ceremonies once again demonstrated the deep religious, historical and cultural ties between Iran and Iraq, two neighboring Muslim countries.
A commemoration that unites the two countries
Iraq witnessed two of the largest funeral gatherings in its modern history. First, a massive farewell ceremony was held around the Imam Ali Shrine in Najaf, attended by approximately 3.8 million people. Then the body of the martyred leader was transferred to Karbala via the Arbaeen route.
These commemoration ceremonies in Iraq were a continuation of the funeral rites held in the Iranian cities of Tehran and Qom, which drew millions of participants. At the request of Iraqi religious scholars, the body was brought to Iraq, further strengthening the spiritual bond between the two Muslim countries.