Iraq steps up Baghdad security for Eid al-Fitr holiday

By Ali Jawad

BAGHDAD (AA) - Security measures have been stepped up throughout Iraqi capital Baghdad for the Muslim Eid al-Fitr holiday that began Thursday evening, according to a local security source.

“Anti-terrorism forces, local and federal police, army units and the intelligence apparatus were all mobilized across the capital this morning,” Baghdad Police Captain Ahmad Khalaf told Anadolu Agency.

“Security forces have been deployed near public parks and squares, playgrounds and mosques in anticipation of possible attacks by elements associated with the [Daesh] terrorist group,” Khalaf said.

Security forces will remain on high alert until the three-day holiday ends on Sunday evening, the police officer added.

In recent years, public spaces in Baghdad have been the target of frequent attacks by Daesh, which -- despite having suffered a string of crushing military defeats last year -- still maintains a limited a presence in the country.