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Around the world Shia Muslims are commemorating Arbaeen: the 40th day since the martyrdom anniversary of the grandson of Prophet Mohammad and the third Shia Imam.

Millions of people from across the globe have gathered in the holy Iraqi city of Karbala, the resting place of Imam Hussein. Officials estimate that some 15 million pilgrims are attending the ceremonies despite deadly violence by extremist groups. Dozens of pilgrims have been killed in recent days in terrorist attacks despite tight security measures across Iraq. Similar ceremonies are held in other Muslim countries including Iran, Lebanon and Pakistan. Imam Hussein and 72 of his companions were martyred in the Battle of Karbala in the seventh century.