Iraq: Four killed during protest in Najaf May 16

Event

Mall guards reportedly opened fire at supporters of the Shi'a cleric Moqtada al-Sadr during a rally in Najaf (southern Iraq) on Thursday, May 16, killing at least four people and wounding seventeen others. Protesters were rallying outside the mall following a decision by al-Sadr to expel four influential members of the Sadrist trend, including the owner of the mall and Kadhim al-Azawi, the acting military commander within the Sadrist Peace Brigades (SPG), over corruption allegations. The reports were later confirmed by local authorities.

Further protests by Moqtada al-Sadr supporters are possible in Najaf in the coming days and weeks, though Sadrist leaders urged followers not to organize protests during Ramadan. Further violence cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Individuals in Iraq, and particularly those in Najaf, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and large public gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas with proper security protocols in place, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.