2 million pilgrims visit shrine as Iraqi security forces pass test

[babylonsister]

2 million pilgrims visit shrine as Iraqi security forces pass test

By Mike Tharp | McClatchy Newspapers


BAGHDAD -- Iraqi security forces passed their first big test minus American troops with flying colors -- and with veil-to-sandal searches of an estimated 2 million pilgrims at one of Shiite Islam's most sacred shrines.

Only one death and 48 injuries were reported Thursday through Saturday in incidents authorities tied to the pilgrimage to the Khadimiyah mosque in northwest Baghdad. On Friday, eight roadside bombs killed one man and injured 40 others in various parts of Baghdad.

"This is the first 100 percent Iraqi security plan to protect the pilgrims," Maj. Gen. Qassim Atta, the spokesman for Baghdad command operations, told Iraqi TV stations. "The forces are all Iraqis, even the helicopters above."

American support in the operation was minimal. Iraqi security forces, through their Baghdad Central Command, requested "limited enabling capabilities to support their security plan for the Khadimiya Shrine visit," said Army Lt. Col. Philip J. Smith, a U.S. military spokesman. The Iraqis asked for 60 pallets of bottled water, plus intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance support.

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