Violence erupted between the Iraqi army and Hashed al-Shaabi militants near the Peace Bridge in the holy city of Karbala during a pilgrimage on Thursday. The clashes reportedly erupted when tensions flared between the two groups, leading to armed confrontations. Videos posted online showed the exchange of gunfire and the chaos that ensued as pilgrims hurried to safety.
The annual pilgrimage to Karbala, known as Arbaeen, draws millions of Shia Muslims from around the world to commemorate the death of Imam Hussein, a revered figure in Shia Islam. The event is a significant religious gathering, with pilgrims often walking long distances to reach the holy city.
The clashes between the Iraqi army and Hashed al-Shaabi militants highlight the complex and volatile security situation in Iraq, where various armed groups still wield influence and power. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by the Iraqi government in maintaining security and stability in the country.
Authorities have not released any official statement regarding the clashes, and it is unclear what sparked the violence between the two groups. However, the incident underscores the need for continued efforts to promote peace and unity in Iraq, particularly during sensitive religious gatherings like the pilgrimage to Karbala.
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Video “Iraqi Army and Hashed al-Shaabi Militants Clash During Karbala Pilgrimage” was uploaded on 08/22/2024 to Youtube Channel The Free Press Journal