Diyala governorate declares Sunday official holiday for Arbaeen observance

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Diyala Governorate has declared Sunday, August 2, an official holiday across all government offices and departments in the province. The decision was issued at the direction of Governor Adnan Mohammed Abbas al-Shimari. Under the order, all official institutions and directorates in the province will remain closed on Sunday. The provincial administration said the holiday is intended to enable residents to take part in the Arbaeen commemoration marking the 40th day after Ashura, the observance of Imam Hussein. Local authorities said suspending government operations for the day will help facilitate public participation in the religious observance. No further details on coordination with other institutions or service continuity arrangements were immediately available.