Iraq issues 'total curfew' for Eid al-Adha
COVID-19 cases have increased to historic highs of around 2,000 a day in Iraq.
Iraq is instituting a “total curfew” for the upcoming Eid al-Adha holiday.
The curfew will be in place from July 30 until Aug. 9, according to a statement today from the Iraqi government. Past total curfew orders in Iraq have mandated a ban on non-essential movement and business, meaning people could only go to local supermarkets and pharmacies.
Today’s order also stipulated that security forces can impose fines and seize the vehicles of those who do not wear masks or practice social distancing, among other measures.
Eid al-Adha will begin in late July this year. The Muslim occasion commemorates Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son on God’s command. The holiday typically includes large meals and gatherings of family and friends in addition to prayers at mosques and at homes. The social nature of the holiday is prompting governments in the region to institute health guidelines aimed at mitigating the spread of the pandemic.
