Basra: The mayor of Safwan district, west of Basra, Dr. Ghassan Al-Shuwaili, announced today that the Safwan border crossing has received 26,000 visitors from Kuwait and other Gulf countries. These pilgrims are traveling to the holy city of Karbala to participate in the Arba'een pilgrimage, commemorating Imam Hussein.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Shuwaili stated that the local government in Basra, in collaboration with security forces, border crossing departments, and supporting agencies, is working to ensure the provision of optimal services to the pilgrims. The aim is to facilitate their entry and movement smoothly and without any disruptions.

Al-Shuwaili noted a continuous increase in the number of pilgrims, particularly after the Al-Abdali border crossing with Kuwait was closed following a bombing incident. This closure has led to a sustained influx of pilgrims through the Safwan crossing as they journey to the holy city of Karbala.