Iranian official Pourjamshidian announced that the number of pilgrims crossing to Iraq via his country for the Arbaeen walk, one of the largest religious gatherings in the Islamic world, has exceeded 3.2 million.
During a visit to the Bashmaq border crossing in the Kurdistan province, Pourjamshidian stated that no major issues disrupting the crossings had occurred so far. He called on prospective pilgrims to use the different border gates designated by Iran.
He emphasized that the Bashmaq and Tamarchin border gates have sufficient capacity to handle pilgrim traffic with infrastructure, social facilities, and favorable weather conditions.
He said that the services jointly provided by Sunni and Shia mawakeb (service tents), executive bodies, governorates, and municipalities at the Bashmaq gate reflect practical Islamic unity. He added that a significant portion of pilgrim transportation on both sides of the border is provided free of charge.
Addressing concerns about the return journey, Pourjamshidian noted that efforts are ongoing to organize the return route, especially within Iraq. He reported that authorities have designated specific points between pillars 57 and 59, set up mawakeb, installed directional signs, and formed transportation fleets to ease the difficulties of returning travelers.
He noted that the Bashmaq international border crossing in Marivan has served as one of Iran's official Arbaeen crossing points for five years and hosts large numbers of pilgrims heading to the holy shrines in Iraq every year.