According to Hoj. Seyed Mohammad Zolfaghari, “The participation of foreign pilgrims in the Itikaf ceremony during the month of Rajab (the 7th month on the lunar calendar) is highly significant. This year, 4,041 applicants from 28 countries around the world will participate in this spiritual gathering starting on January 13”.
He stated that 5% of the allotted quota is dedicated to foreign nationals. “These pilgrims come from India, Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, Bahrain, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Nigeria, Germany, Bangladesh, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, African countries, Singapore, Australia, the United States, etc.”
Moreover, considering the substantial presence of Afghan pilgrims, a special inauguration ceremony focusing on religious and spiritual discussions was scheduled on January 13, at 7:30 PM in Ghadir Portico of the shrine.
Itikaf is an Islamic practice of spiritual retreat, typically observed during the last ten days of Ramadan, although it can be observed at other times as well, such as during the month of Rajab.