Iraq Thwarts a Plot to Poison and Bomb Pilgrims of the Arbaeen in Karbala

The Iraqi security forces managed to thwart a terrorist plot aimed at targeting the pilgrims participating in the Arbaeen ceremonies of Imam Hussein in Karbala, in a qualitative operation that resulted in the arrest of a network involved in these destructive acts.

In a statement issued by the Supreme Judicial Council, it was announced that 23 suspects, including a woman, were arrested in several areas including Baghdad and southern and central Euphrates provinces.

According to the statement, the operation was carried out under the direct supervision of the judge of the Karbala investigative court and in coordination with the intelligence Falcon Cell.

The suspects confessed to the details of the terrorist plot, which aimed to undermine the security and safety of the pilgrims during their participation in the Arbaeen.

The plot included several dangerous phases, the first of which was to plant explosive devices on the main roads taken by the pilgrims in the southern axis, where they were to be detonated to destabilize security and cause the highest number of casualties.

The second phase involved poisoning the food provided to the pilgrims with deadly toxins. This aspect was managed by a student specializing in the anesthesia department, highlighting the seriousness of the conspiracy and the extent of its meticulous preparation. The plot also included burning the service processions that provide logistical support to the pilgrims, in order to create chaos and panic among the crowds.

The security forces confirmed that the detainees confessed to carrying out similar terrorist operations in previous periods, under direct guidance from cells affiliated with ISIS. Their confessions have been legally documented, in a step aimed at neutralizing the terrorist elements before carrying out any new hostile act.