Shia Rights Watch calls on the Iraqi authorities to work toward the security of pilgrims in the country, especially for the pilgrims in the city of Samarra, which commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hassan al-Askari, the eleventh Imam of Shia Muslims, on the eighth of the Rabīʿ al-Awwal of Islamic calendar.
Samarra is considered a holy city for Shia where three Shia Imams are buried. This city has always been a target for anti- Shia extremists and many have lost their lives going toward this city. Not long ago anti- Shia extremists destroyed the shrine of the Shia Imams in Samarra in order to stop pilgrims from visiting this city. This attack was the worst of its kind since the demolition of shrines of four Shia Muslim Imams in Saudi Arabia on 1 May by King Ibn Saud.
The organization condemns the recent attacks to Shia Muslim pilgrims. Anti–Shia groups have attacked un-armed pilgrims many times and caused financial and emotional discomfort for them. Iraqi authorities must remember that in this sensitive period, Shia pilgrims and their security must be assured in Iraq. The Iraqi government can reunite Iraqi citizen again by protecting their security and right to freedom of religion.
S.R.W asks Iraqi government to use all its power to secure the Samarra and punish all who cause problems for piligirims
