We extend our condolences to the Imam of our time, Al Hujjah Al Mahdi (ATFS) and to you all as we commemorate the great martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), his family and the faithful companions who sacrificed their lives to save Islam.
Please see below Safety guidance for Shia Communities in the UK.
Additional guidance can be found here.
RE: SAFETY GUIDANCE FOR SHIA COMMUNITIES
- Travelling to Iraq (Ziyaraat)
- Local Commemoration
- Safeguarding
Various Shia Muslim community organisations have come together this year to develop guidance for our local communities, to ensure that the British Shia Muslim community is able to commemorate the events of Karbala in a safe and secure manner. With the current political climate of Islamophobia and Shiaphobia, coupled with the threat of Daesh, it is essential that we remain attuned to the sensitivities of our local areas.
Having met and briefed representatives from the National Counter Terrorism and Policing Centre, as well as the Borders Agencies, we have produced the following guidelines for our communities. This also includes updates in relation to developments that have occurred this Muharram. Please do share with other centres and your respective membership.
1.Travelling to Iraq (Ziyaraat)
Summary:
- Build in extra time when travelling
- Please be patient and be ready to answer questions if needed.
- See guidance on children travelling and carrying large amounts of money.
There is currently increased security monitoring those who are travelling to Syria and Iraq (including those travelling via Turkey) to ensure supporters are not going to join the Daesh forces, and similarly others are not going to join the various militias. We are working alongside the National Counter Terrorism and Policing Centre, as well as the Borders Agencies to try and ensure smooth journeys to and from Iraq this year for Ziyaarat.
Please ensure you read the FCO Travel Advice (which is regularly updated) before travelling.https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/iraq
Iraq Travel Advice - www.gov.uk
