EventShi'a Muslims will observe Arba'een across the Middle East and North Africa Sept. 5-6. Some government and commercial offices may close throughout the region. Major closures and parades are likely in Shi'a-majority areas - especially in Iran, southern Iraq, Eastern Province in Saudi Arabia, and predominantly Shi'a areas outside Manama, Bahrain. Sunni militants in Iran, particularly in Khuzestan and Sistan va Baluchestan provinces, could also attempt to carry out attacks on Shi'a gatherings. Terrorist attacks targeting Shi'a pilgrims have occurred in the past, and security continues to be a concern.

Source: The North Africa Journal August 30, 2023 14:08 UTC