The Iraqi Ministry of Health said dozens of pilgrims were feared dead or injured on Tuesday after a building collapsed during A'shura commemorations in Iraq's holy city of Karbala.

Iran PressMiddle East: At least 35 people died and at about 111 others were injured "towards the end of the Ashoura ritual, causing panic and a stampede," health ministry spokesman Saif Al Badr said. He said that the toll was expected to rise.

Tens of thousands of people converge on the city on the 10th day of the lunar month of Muharram, one of the most sacred days for the Shi'a Muslims.

They then walk around Karbala every year to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein(AS), Prophet Mohammad's grandson, during a major battle near the city in 680 CE.

Crowds gather at the Holy shrine of Imam Hussein to commemorate his martyrdom. The rituals involve self-flagellation.

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