Iraq to bar ‘Arbaeen’ pilgrims from entering country

Iraq said in a statement Monday that religious pilgrims will not be allowed to enter the country due to fears over the spread of the novel coronavirus. The move comes ahead of the annual Arbaeen pilgrimage on October 7 in Najaf and Karbala. Millions of Shi’ite Muslims gather for the event, many from Iran. The Iraq-Iran border crossings have been closed, according to news reports.