Babil province declares Thursday public holiday for Speicher massacre anniversary

BABIL, Iraq — The Babil Provincial Council has declared Thursday, June 11, 2026, an official public holiday for government institutions in the province to mark the anniversary of the Speicher massacre carried out by ISIS in 2014. The council said the holiday was issued in remembrance of the serious crimes committed by the militant group against local residents. Security and service departments were excluded from the decision so essential operations could continue. Final examinations at universities and schools were also exempt from the holiday, according to the statement. Public offices in the province will not operate on Thursday. The holiday is intended to allow commemorative events to be held for the victims of the Speicher massacre. The council said the decision reflects the province's commitment to honoring those killed in the attack.