Expanded Security Meeting Held Ahead of Eid al-Ghadir Pilgrimage in Holy Najaf

Expanded Security Meeting Held Ahead of Eid al-Ghadir Pilgrimage in Holy Najaf
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Iraq’s Senior Deputy Interior Minister, Dr. Hussein al-Awadi, chaired an expanded security meeting to discuss preparations for the Eid al-Ghadir pilgrimage in holy Najaf.

The meeting brought together a number of ministry deputies, security commanders, and provincial police chiefs to review the security and service plan for protecting the ceremonies, as large numbers of pilgrims are expected to arrive in Najaf and Karbala.

During the meeting, al-Awadi stressed the need to raise readiness levels and intensify security, intelligence, and service efforts. He directed all security formations to strengthen coordination and organized fieldwork to ensure the success of the pilgrimage and provide suitable conditions for visitors.

He also emphasized the importance of flexibility in dealing with citizens and avoiding the “militarization” of the pilgrimage, while ensuring a safe environment and smooth movement for pilgrims. He said security work during major religious occasions should reflect a civilized and humanitarian image.

Al-Awadi instructed officials to support the police commands in Najaf and Karbala and provide all necessary human and logistical resources. He also called for increased deployment of security units on external and internal roads, along with stronger traffic and service measures to secure the movement of pilgrims between provinces.

He urged police chiefs, traffic officials, and supporting departments to maintain a continuous field presence and directly follow up on the implementation of the security plan.