Police forces in the holy city of Najaf, Iraq, have taken special security measures in the city ahead of Eid al-Ghadir, which falls on Tuesday.
Khalid al-Jasha’ami, head of Najaf Province Security Committee, said a meeting will be held on Saturday to discuss further necessary moves to ensure security during the ceremonies set to be held to celebrate the auspicious occasion.
He said all the security forces of Najaf and neighboring provinces as well as popular forces will cooperate in maintaining security for the pilgrims.
He noted that the planned security measures focus on intelligence activities and setting up checkpoints around the holy city.
Eid al-Ghadir is among important feasts and happy holidays of Shia Muslims held on the 18th day of Dhu l-Hijja in the lunar Hijri calendar.
It was the day when according to reports, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) appointed Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS) as his caliph and the Imam after himself following an order from God. That event happened in the Prophet's (PBUH) Hajjat al-Wida' (the Farewell Hajj), in the year 10 Hijri/632 A.D. in a place called Ghadir Khumm.
In Shia hadiths, the anniversary has been called "Eid Allah al-Akbar" (the greatest Eid of God). Shia Muslims celebrate this day around the world, including at the holy shrine of Imam Ali (AS) in Najaf.
