Iran: Thousands mark Ashura in Iran to mourn Imam Hussein.

SHOTLIST: TEHRAN, IRAN (JUNE 25, 2026) 1. VARIOUS OF MOURNERS COVERED IN MUD DURING GIL-MALI RITUAL 2. VARIOUS OF SHI'ITE MOURNERS CHANTING ELEGIES AND BEATING THEIR CHESTS DURING GIL-MALI RITUAL TEHRAN, IRAN - JUNE 25: Thousands of mourners gathered in Tehran on Thursday, June 25, to mark Ashura, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, and his companions at the Battle of Karbala. Participants filled the Gelubandak Square area near Tehran's Grand Bazaar, chanting religious elegies and beating their chests as part of traditional mourning rituals. A reenactment of the events of Karbala was staged during the ceremony, including the symbolic burning of Imam Hussein's tent, while worshippers also performed the noon prayer traditionally associated with Ashura. Volunteers distributed Halim, a traditional wheat and meat dish, along with milk, cakes and other refreshments to participants. Similar Ashura commemorations were held across Iran, while members of the Lor community observed the traditional Gil-mali mud ritual in remembrance of Imam Hussein. During the ritual, participants cover their bodies and clothes with mud, symbolizing deep grief and mourning. The 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram, also known as Ashura, marks the anniversary of the passing of Prophet Mohammad’s grandson Hussein in the desert plains of Karbala, some 113 kilometers (70 miles) from the modern-day capital Baghdad.