Iraqi Shiite pilgrims converge on Baghdad shrine; tight security after deadly attacks

Published January 13, 2015

Tens of thousands of Shiite pilgrims are converging on a golden-domed Shiite shrine in northern Baghdad to commemorate the death of a revered Shiite Muslim saint. Security is tight after a wave of deadly attacks.

Interior Ministry spokesman Lt. Col. Saad Maan Ibrahim said Tuesday that several thousand policemen and soldiers were deployed in Baghdad to secure the processions. Pilgrims have to undergo several searches before reaching the gates of Imam Moussa al-Kadhim shrine.

Many of the main streets in the capital have been closed in recent days to prevent attacks on the walking pilgrims. No significant attacks have been reported, Ibrahim said.

A series of bloody sectarian attacks made April and May the deadliest months in years.

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https://www.foxnews.com/world/iraqi-shiite-pilgrims-converge-on-baghdad-shrine-tight-security-after-deadly-attacks