Iraq reignites after ‘deadline’ expires and protesters killed
Protesters have once again turned out en masse in recent days across southern and central Iraq and tensions are flaring shortly after protesters were killed trying to push toward the Iranian Embassy on a Baghdad bridge Jan. 17.
BAGHDAD — Anti-government protests have once again heated up across the country, with reports of live ammunition being used by security forces after protesters blocked a highway bridge in the capital Jan. 19 and again Jan. 20 near the main protest square in the capital, where several protesters were killed.
Dozens had been injured in Baghdad and elsewhere by the end of the day Jan. 20 after a seven-day deadline issued by protesters in Nasiriyah expired and more were killed the following day.
There were also reports of at least 14 security forces injured on Jan. 20, including a brigade commander of the federal police whose leg was broken while he was allegedly protecting peaceful protesters in Tahrir Square. Police have for months been at the entrance to the square, where those entering are subject to body searches to prevent the infiltration of weapons.
The Iraqi Human Rights Commission said Tuesday that 4 protestors had been killed in Baghdad over the previous two days and that 85 had been injured. Some 36 were arrested in the province. More deaths were reported in other provinces, including 2 in Karbala.
