IRNA � A terrorist attack on the Arbaeen pilgrims was thwarted on Thursday in a region in eastern Iraqi province of Wasit, security sources announced.

The terrorists holding improvised explosive devices (IEDs) made by ammonium nitrate in their hands attempted in vain to attack the pilgrims, a provincial security sources said.

Days before the start of Arbaeen mourning ceremony falling on November 10 in Iraq, the country's security officials warned the pilgrims about possible terrorist operation by Daesh (ISIS) terrorist group as the group has faced humiliating defeats in Iraq and Syria.

The Arbaeen mourning ceremony is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

It marks the 40th day after the martyrdom anniversary of the grandson of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), Imam Hussein (AS), the third Imam of Shiite Muslims.