WANA (Aug 10) – On the eve of the Arbaeen pilgrimage, Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council announced the dismantling of an ISIS-linked terrorist network that had planned to attack pilgrims attending the ceremonies for Imam Hussain (PBH).

 

According to an official statement, this ISIS network intended to plant improvised explosive devices along Arbaeen’s southern pilgrimage routes and contaminate distributed food with deadly toxins.

 

Investigations revealed that ISIS recruits members through brainwashing, extremist propaganda, and distorted religious training, connecting them with pre-selected clerics to pressure them into pledging allegiance to the terrorist group’s leadership.

 

The judiciary urged families to closely monitor their children’s online activities and remain alert to any sudden behavioral or ideological changes.

 

Previously, Karbala’s provincial government reported that a 22-member terrorist cell was arrested while plotting attacks during the Arbaeen pilgrimage.

 

Their primary target was a Hussainiya along the route between Karbala and Najaf. The judiciary confirmed Sunday that the plan was fully foiled, preventing what could have been a deadly assault on pilgrims.

Iranian people walk as they commemorate Arbaeen in southern Tehran, Iran August 25, 2024. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Iranian people walk as they commemorate Arbaeen in southern Tehran, Iran, August 25, 2024. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)