Security forces are on high alert in Iraq as Shi’ite Muslims gather for ceremonies to mark the religious holiday of Ashura.<br /><br />There are fears that extremists may try to target the millions of pilgrims who take part in the events, with heavy casualties in attacks in previous years.<br /><br />The presence of ISIL militants in the country has heightened those fears.<br /><br />ISIL has previously described Shi’ite Muslims as infidels who deserve to be killed, forcing local communities to take extra security precautions.<br /><br />During the ceremonies people hit themselves and gash their heads. Under the rule of Saddam Hussein such events were banned under secular laws.
