Tasnim� A lieutenant commander of Iran�s Air Defense unveiled special plans to ensure the security of pilgrims performing religious rituals in Iraq on Arbaeen, including enhancement of radar coverage along Iran�s western borders.

As millions of pilgrims flock to Iraq for Arbaeen mourning ceremony, Iran�s Air Defense will strengthen radar coverage in the border areas and increase the number of stationary and mobile watch posts, General Alireza Elhami announced on Wednesday.

The Iranian Air Defense monitors all aerial activities in the course of the religious event, and is ready to counter any threat, including small man-launched drones, he added.

The Arbaeen mourning ceremony is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

It marks the 40th day after the martyrdom anniversary of the grandson of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), Imam Hussein (AS).

Each year, pilgrims, mainly from Iraq and Iran, travel long routes on foot to Karbala, where the holy shrine of Imam Hussein (AS) is located.

Last year, more than 20 million pilgrims from all over the world gathered in Karbala on Arbaeen.