Tough security measures in Najaf, Koufa

The Iraqi authorities in south Iraq blocked yesterday all opening of the two cities of Najaf and Koufa in precaution of acts of riots following Friday's prayers.

When some 500 members of Muqtada al-Sader supporters failed to enter al-Koufa mosque which was besieged by police members, they gathered near the building to perform the prayers and hear the sermon by Sheikh Jaber al-Khaffaji, which he delivered on behalf of Muqtada al-Sader.

The sermon called for the release of the two kidnapped French journalists Christian Shino and George Malbrono. However, some 300 demonstrators headed towards Imam Ali shrine in Najaf chanting slogans against Muqtada al-Sader.