Iraq’s army chief inspects security plans in Karbala ahead of flag-changing ceremonies

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq’s Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Abdul Amir Rashid Yarallah, arrived in Karbala on Tuesday to review preparations for the security plan covering the upcoming flag-changing ceremonies at the Imam Hussein Shrine, the Ministry of Defense said in a written statement. The ministry said Yarallah traveled to the city with a senior military delegation and inspected the implementation of the security arrangements. It added that security forces have taken the required measures for the ceremonies and that coordination between units is continuing. The delegation held consultations with security commands and relevant units in Karbala, the statement said, adding that after reviewing the preparations the team was preparing to return to Baghdad. No further details on the timing of the ceremonies were immediately provided.