Millions of Pilgrims Arrive in Najaf to Mark Eid al-Ghadir

NAJAF, Iraq — Millions of visitors traveled to Najaf from across Iraq and Arab and Islamic countries to celebrate Eid al-Ghadir, the municipality said Thursday. Ahmed Duwaybis, a spokesperson for Najaf Municipality, said local authorities prepared a comprehensive plan covering security, health and transportation to manage the influx of pilgrims. The security arrangement included police, intelligence units, the National Security apparatus, Hashd al-Shabi and the Imam Ali Combat Brigade, along with border guards. Civil defense teams deployed in crowded areas, while medical and service units were stationed on main roads and around the old city. Duwaybis said municipal teams coordinated with private companies on waste collection and street cleaning, with Najaf's governor directing 400 additional cleaning personnel to the city center. The shrine of Imam Ali drew crowds from early morning onward. Eid al-Ghadir, observed annually on the 18th of Dhul Hijjah, commemorates the Ghadir Khumm event and traditionally draws millions of Shia Muslims.