Iranians are commemorating the martyrdom anniversary of the eighth Shia Imam, Ali ibn Musa al-Reza (Peace be upon Him).

Mourning processions are being held in different cities, most notably in the northeastern city of Mashhad, where the holy shrine of Imam Reza is situated.

The eighth Shia Imam was martyred after being poisoned by the Abbasid Caliph Ma’mun in the year 818 AD.

People mark the martyrdom anniversary of the eighth Shia Imam, Ali ibn Musa al-Reza (PBUH) in Mashhad, Iran, November 19, 2017. (Photo by IRNA)

Custodians of Imam Reza's holy shrine hold candles on the eve of his martyrdom anniversary in Mashahd, Iran, November 18, 2017. (Photo by IRNA)