Karbala: The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Shia Al-Sudani, announced full readiness for the peak of the Arbaeen pilgrimage, confirming that all necessary civil defense measures have been taken to ensure security. This announcement was made during a meeting in the holy province of Karbala, where Al-Sudani reviewed the security plan for the pilgrimage, which holds significant symbolic importance, especially with the increasing number of visitors each year.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sudani’s media office stated that the indicators are positive and the plans are progressing well. Al-Sudani emphasized his direct communication with the Minister of Interior and the Governor of Karbala to ensure smooth and seamless implementation of the plan.

He stressed the need to strengthen security plans and address any gaps, focusing on high coordination between security agencies to prevent overlap of authorities. He also issued directives to stop the entry of convoys of all officials and emphasized the importance of swift action against rumors and misleading news targeting religious events and mass gatherings.

The Commander-in-Chief highlighted the importance of the service aspect as a complement to security fluidity, directing enhanced coordination with owners of service posts and public service providers. He called for raising the level of civil defense measures, boosting the role of the health sector amid the severe heat, and activating the contribution of volunteer teams, especially students from colleges and institutes, to play a qualitative role in this significant occasion.

The meeting was attended by the Chairman of the Supreme Security Committee for the pilgrimage, the Minister of Interior, the Governor of Karbala, several commanders of security apparatuses and formations, and representatives of the religious shrines.