TEHRAN-- Iran and Iraqs history is filled with lots of affinities.
Even the 1980-1988 war could not cut the cables in between the two friendly neighbors.
The Iraqis have shown when again that they hold true buddies of Iran with their remarkable hosting of Arbaeen pilgrims. In a message issued on Tuesday, Irans Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi thanked the Iraqi country for their kind hospitality.
As the Minister of Interior of the Islamic Republic of Iran, I want to thank you, my dear Iraqi siblings and sis, for your kind hospitality in serving the pilgrims, he wrote.In his message, he added, I hope the Almighty God will reward you for this sincere service to the pilgrims of Imam Hussein (AS) in this world and in the hereafter.
Earlier, Irans mission in Baghdad and the Commander-in-chief of Irans Islamic Revolution Guards Corps had revealed their appreciation of the Iraqi peoples hosting.On Monday, IRGC chief Hossein Salami thanked the Iraqi government and the people.While browsing Twitter, I observed a number of tweets from Arbaeen pilgrims revealing their sincere appreciation of the Iraqis hosting with using the hashtag Thanks Iraq for your kindness.
During the Arbaeen march routine, Iraqis hold Mukibs (temporary lodgings that can likewise offer food, water, and resting locations).
The Iraqi federal government does not fund these Mukibs.
My observations from the Arbaeen march in 2018 had fascinating results.
I witnessed an Iraqi household with 8 children living in important financial conditions.
This generous household served us (21 individuals) rice and chicken, various types of salads and standard Iraqi desserts.
Iraqis living in Najaf and rural towns are on the belief that they ought to conserve up some cash throughout the year simply to serve the pilgrims going to the Arbaeen march ritual.They likewise think that these pilgrims must get the very best treatment, for that reason they massage the pilgrims feet to relax them after a long walk and offer the very best food they can afford.
I have even seen an Iraqi male who was cleaning our clothing, stating that he is more than going to do this for an Imam Hussein (AS) pilgrim.
This year was no exception.
After the Covid-19 pandemic, the march was shut down for 2 years.
Naturally, this year, huge crowds flocked to Irans border crossings.Certainly, there were some miscalculations on Tehran and Baghdads sides, both the two governments got rid of the barriers through extensive collaboration.
With the march nearing its end, videos are being distributed in social media revealing Iraqi hosts weeping over the departure of pilgrims.
This clearly reveals the deep affection of the Iraqis for all Imam Hussein (AS) pilgrims, especially Iranians.