Iraq will seal its borders next week in an attempt to prevent Shia pilgrims flooding into the country for a major religious ceremony, the interim administration indicated today.
In the latest emergency measure to thwart insurgent violence, the borders will be closed between February 17th and February 22nd - the climax of Ashura.
Millions of Shias travel from across the Arab world to holy sites in Iraq to pay homage to the martyrdom of Imam Hussein in 680 AD.
Suicide bombers attacked pilgrims last year in Baghdad and Kerbala, killing at least 171 people at ceremonies last year.
An Iraqi government spokesman said ceremonies would take place and foreign pilgrims could attend provided they arrive before the 17th or after the 22nd.
"During these dates people will flood to Iraq from neighbouring countries because of Ashura, which will make it difficult to ensure the safety of Iraqis and the visitors," he said.
But drivers trying to enter Iraq from Syria, Iran and Jordan say that many border crossings are already shut, meaning foreign Shia will struggle to make the holy journey this year.
In the battle against insurgency, the interim administration has adopted emergency laws allowing it to declare curfews, close borders and detain suspects without normal legal process.