Erbil prepares security plan for Christmas, New Year celebrations

ERBIL — Erbil authorities have begun preparations for Christmas and New Year celebrations, outlining plans to secure public venues and manage large gatherings expected in the city during the holiday period, the governorate said.

The plans were discussed at a meeting Monday at the governorate office chaired by Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw and attended by local officials, including representatives from police, civil defense, health and security agencies.

In a statement issued after the meeting, the governorate said security forces, including police, civil defense, traffic police, emergency services and health teams, will be deployed across public areas and locations where residents and tourists are expected to gather. The statement said the aim is to prevent unauthorized or disruptive activity and to respond quickly to emergencies.

Khoshnaw directed relevant departments to coordinate with one another to manage the expected influx of visitors to Erbil from other parts of Iraq and from abroad. “Citizens are assured that all necessary measures are being taken to protect their safety and property,” the statement said.

Officials also discussed traffic and crowd control in high-traffic areas, including markets, near mosques and other busy locations.

Erbil hosts annual New Year’s Eve festivities that draw thousands of visitors and include public events organized largely by private sector groups.