Baghdad: Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, praised the efforts of the security forces and relevant ministries in securing the pilgrimage commemorating the martyrdom of Imam al-Hassan al-Askari in Samarra.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, a statement by the Prime Minister’s Office indicated that al-Sudani visited the headquarters of the Joint Operations Command to follow up on the security and service plan for the pilgrimage. The visit aimed to ensure the safety and success of the event in the presence of the Deputy Commander of the Joint Operations.

Al-Sudani was briefed via videoconference on the current security and service situation. The report was detailed by officials including the head of the Hajj and Umrah Commission, the commander of the Samarra region, the head of the services committee in the Supreme Committee for Million-Pilgrimage, and the mayor of Samarra.

The Prime Minister reiterated his commendation for the security forces and the ministries involved, highlighting the importance of their presence along the roads leading to Samarra. He also called for continued efforts from the Hajj and Umrah Commission and associated agencies to facilitate the reverse movement of visitors after the pilgrimage.

Al-Sudani highlighted Samarra as a model of social unity and stressed the importance of increased support for the city. He announced that the Samarra development and expansion project will soon be presented to the Council of Ministers, following the completion of necessary surveys and plans.