Hundreds Of Shi'ite Muslims Mark Eve Of Ashura In Islamabad

Hundreds of Shi'ite Muslims joined processions in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, to commemorate the eve of the holiday of Ashura. Participants rhythmically beat their chests and recited poems on August 18 to mark the martyrdom of Hussain, a grandson of the prophet Muhammad, and of Hussain's family. Security measures were in place including the blocking of phone signals as such processions have been attacked in the past by sectarian groups.