Against all odds, Iran seems to be preparing to observe the Islamic holy month of Muharram, starting from the 26th or 27th of June 2025, amid rising tensions and continued attacks from Israel.
The Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year and holds deep significance for the Shia Muslims, as it commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, who is believed to be the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the historic Battle of Karbala.
Muharram also marks the four sacred months in Islam, during which warfare is traditionally forbidden.
Despite the war-like atmosphere, their conflict with Israel as well as the recent bombing episodes from the United States, religious preparations are underway both in Iran and at Imam Hussein’s shrine in Karbala, Iraq.
Reports from Tehran confirm that thousands of Iranian pilgrims are also planning to travel to Iraq for their annual rituals.
Muharram is a period of mourning and reflection among Shia Muslims, with the occasion symbolizing the struggle against injustice and oppression and is widely observed across the Middle East and parts of Asia with large Shia communities.
The occasion is taken very seriously in Iran where there are a majority of Shia Muslims, with the religion made the official national faith.
In another development, the Government of Tanzania has started to evacuate its nationals who happen to be in Iran and Israel in response to the increasing tensions, conflicts and deteriorating security in the Middle East.
It is believed that there are more than 100 Tanzanians in Iran alone, with double the number in Israel.