Shiite pilgrims defy violence, mark rite in Karbala

More than a million Shiite pilgrims thronged the holy Iraqi city of Karbala on Tuesday for annual mourning rituals, with security forces keeping a tight watch following a spate of deadly attacks.

Worshippers continued to pour into the city south of Baghdad for the climax of Arbaeen, mindful that dozens had been killed in recent days as they made their way there on foot from across Iraq for the ceremonies.

Arbaeen marks 40 days after the Ashura anniversary commemorating the slaying of Imam Hussein, one of Shiite Islam's most revered figures, by the armies of the caliph Yazid in 680 AD.