Syria, Iraq stir hope despite memories of war with resumption of Shiite pilgrimages- analysis

Syria and Iraq are discussing the restoration of organized Shiite pilgrimages to the Sayyida Zaynab shrine near Damascus, following talks on October 28 between Iraqi PM Ali Faleh al-Zaidi and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The proposal aims to revive religious tourism that supported local businesses before the fall of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, but concerns remain over the role of Iran-backed armed groups during the civil war and the practice of tatbir.

Syria and Iraq are discussing the restoration of organized Shiite pilgrimages to the Sayyida Zaynab shrine near Damascus, following high-level talks on October 28 between Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The two leaders proposed establishing a committee to arrange visits and ensure pilgrims' safety, but no timetable or final agreement has been announced. The prospect has raised hopes of reviving businesses that once depended on religious tourism, while reopening painful questions about the role of Iran-backed armed groups during Syria's civil war. Local residents recall disruptions from large processions and the practice of tatbir, a mourning ritual involving self-harm. The Forum of Levantine Preachers warned against armed factions reestablishing themselves under the cover of religious tourism. Syrian official Ahmad Anwar al-Alabi said the government regards access to shrines as a legitimate right and is considering organized groups with designated visiting periods, prohibiting weapons and political mobilization.