The Holy Shrine of Imam Ali in Najaf has announced the launch of the 15th edition of Ghadir Week, a major religious and cultural event that will feature participation from 27 countries and the raising of Ghadir banners at nearly 150 locations inside and outside Iraq.

Speaking at a press conference, Haider Rahim, Head of the Shrine’s Media Department, described Ghadir Week as one of the most significant annual events organized by the Holy Shrine to commemorate Eid Al-Ghadir and the declaration of the Wilayah of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (peace be upon him).

He explained that the week-long program aims to promote the values of loyalty, justice, unity, and devotion to Imam Ali through a wide range of religious, cultural, artistic, educational, and service-oriented activities.

Rahim noted that this year’s edition marks the largest expansion of the “Ghadir Banners” initiative since its inception. Approximately 150 sites worldwide will participate in the banner-raising campaign, compared to about 90 locations in previous years.

The initiative will include 20 Iranian provinces, 21 locations across Iraqi governorates, eight holy shrines, 26 revered religious sites, and eight locations within Najaf and its surrounding districts. Participating countries include the United Kingdom, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Norway, Finland, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Romania, the Czech Republic, France, Austria, Iran, India, Pakistan, Australia, Lebanon, Thailand, Turkey, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, China, Kenya, Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, and Egypt.

Among the highlights of the celebration is The Pledge of Allegiance to the Truth, a large-scale open-air theatrical production that will run for 15 days. The performance will feature more than 500 actors, artists, and technical staff and will be staged in a venue capable of accommodating up to 5,000 spectators.

Rahim added that Ghadir banners will also be raised in 20 Iranian provinces affected by recent hostilities, as part of a humanitarian solidarity initiative launched by the Holy Shrine. He said the banners symbolize hope, resilience, and steadfastness while reflecting the enduring values associated with the message of Ghadir.

In addition to the theatrical production, Ghadir Week will feature dozens of Quranic, cultural, public, and community-service programs, further reinforcing its role as one of the region’s leading religious and cultural celebrations.