Iraq media regulator approves new rules covering major public events

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Iraqi Media and Communications Commission approved a package of administrative and regulatory measures at its regular session on Thursday, including a draft regulation governing media coverage of large-scale public events. The session was chaired by commission head Belasim Selm. The draft regulation sets out how national and religious events are to be covered and aims to strengthen media planning during major public gatherings. The commission also approved the creation of a dedicated committee to set the criteria and rules governing media access for such events. In a decision tied to religious pilgrimages, the commission authorized the allocation of a short telephone number for a guidance center that helps direct lost visitors. It also approved measures to streamline journalist access during the 10th of Muharram and the Arbaeen pilgrimage period, with the stated goal of maintaining uninterrupted news coverage while ensuring that religious rituals are observed in line with established rules. The commission did not provide a timeline for implementing the new measures, and further details were not immediately available.