Iraq suspends household gas cylinder distribution during Muharram

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Oil Products Distribution Company has temporarily suspended its household gas cylinder sales program for the duration of the Muharram month and the Arbaeen pilgrimage, the company said. Company media director Rafed Sadiq said in a statement that the program was paused in order to meet cooking gas needs at Husseiniya mourning gatherings and for citizens during the religious period. Sadiq said the suspension would not affect supply operations and that current gas production is sufficient to meet demand. Gas distribution will continue through regular channels, the company added. The household cylinder sales program is set to resume once the Muharram and Arbaeen visitation period ends, according to the company. The Oil Products Distribution Company noted that the pause is limited to this period and that nationwide supply will not be disrupted.