11 Mar 2019 | 03:24 AM UTC
Iraq: Iranian president to visit Baghdad, Najaf March 11-13
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani to visit Baghdad, Najaf on March 11-13; heightened security measures and associated disruptions expected in Baghdad, Najaf provinces and at Shi’a religious sites
Event
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani will arrive in Baghdad on Monday, March 11, for the first Iranian presidential visit to Iraq since 2013. Rouhani will spend three days in the country, attending meetings and visiting Shi'a holy sites in Baghdad and Najaf (Najaf governorate). Heightened security measures are expected in Baghdad and Najaf from Monday through Wednesday, March 13. Associated disruptions, including road closures, checkpoints, and increased security personnel, are expected, particularly in the Baghdad International Zone (IZ) and at Shi'a religious sites in Baghdad, Najaf, and other cities around the country.
Advice
Individuals in Iraq are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate heightened security measures and associated disruptions in Baghdad and Najaf, remain vigilant for militant and terrorist activity and avoid prominent governmental and religious sites, report suspicious behavior and activity to the authorities, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Professional security advise and support should be south prior to all travel.
