Najaf Police Command hosted a high-level security meeting on Saturday to review preparations for this year's Arbaeen pilgrimage and coordinate measures to ensure the safety of millions of pilgrims.

The meeting brought together senior military officials, police commanders, and representatives of the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) to discuss security plans, service coordination, and mechanisms for securing the pilgrimage routes.

Among those in attendance were Qais Al-Mohammadawy, Deputy Commander of the Joint Operations Headquarters and head of the Supreme Committee for the Supervision of Million-Strong Pilgrimages; Yasser Al-Issawi, Deputy for Operations of the PMU General Staff; Major General Ali Al-Hamdani, commander of Central Euphrates Operations; Major General Ahmed Al-Maksousi, commander of Wasit Operations; and Major General Muhammad Jaber Al-Fatlawi, commander of Najaf Police, along with police commanders from neighboring governorates.

Participants reviewed the latest security and logistical preparations and emphasized strengthening coordination among the various security agencies to facilitate the safe and orderly movement of pilgrims during the Arbaeen pilgrimage.

Arbaeen is observed by Shia Muslims on the fortieth day after Ashura, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him), the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) and the third Shia Imam.

It is one of the world's largest annual pilgrimages, attracting millions of participants, including Shia Muslims, Sunnis, and followers of other faiths, who travel to the holy city of Karbala from across Iraq and neighboring countries. This year, Arbaeen will be observed on August 4.