Interior Ministry: no road closures in Christmas, New Year security plan

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Interior Ministry on Thursday announced details of its security plan for Christmas and New Year celebrations, saying violations will be met with strict legal measures and stressing the plan does not include traffic closures.

Miqdad Miri, head of the ministry’s Relations and Media Department, told the Iraqi News Agency that the ministry has developed a comprehensive plan to secure celebrations in Baghdad and all governorates, with a focus on areas with large Christian populations as festivities begin Dec. 25.

Miri said the plan will rely on deploying security patrols and maintaining full coverage across other areas to ensure safe holiday conditions.

Iraq’s Cabinet has decided to suspend official working hours on Thursday, Dec. 25, 2025, in observance of Christmas.

Baghdad Operations Commander Lt. Gen. Walid Khalifa al-Tamimi previously said forces will respond to violations including assault, harassment, gunfire and excessive fireworks. “Any violations of the law that may occur, such as assault, harassment, or the firing of weapons and excessive fireworks, will be dealt with in accordance with the law and measures will be taken against violators,” he said.