Iraq stampede kills 31 Pilgrims at Ashura

At least 31 people have been killed in a stampede during commemorations for the Muslim holy day of Ashura in the Iraqi city of Karbala, officials say.

Ministry spokesman Saif al-Badr said the toll could rise even further, as another 100 people were injured including 10 in critical condition.

The deadly rush began when part of a walkway collapsed during a procession, causing mass panic among worshippers.

Shia pilgrims converge on Karbala annually to commemorate the death of Imam Hussein, Prophet Mohammad’s grandson.

Ashura commemorates the martyrdom in battle of the Imam Hussein, a grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, in 680AD.