Iraq tightens security ahead of Ashura

Baghdad, Feb 8 – Baghdad was under tight security Wednesday on the eve of the Shiite mourning ceremony of Ashura, with roads closed to cars and additional checkpoints set up throughout the Iraqi capital.

Police announced they have closed bridges leading to the south of the country in effort to block a squad of suicide bombers reported to be headed south to disrupt the ceremonies being held in the holy city of Karbala.