Iraq: Death toll rises from nationwide protests on November 7 /update 43

Event

The death toll from nationwide protests across Iraq on Thursday, November 7, has risen to at least ten. Security forces killed at least six people in Baghdad as they attempted to cross the Shuhada Bridge. Another four people died after police used live ammunition to disperse demonstrators in Basra. According to media reports, dozens of people were also wounded during clashes with security forces across the country. In Umm Qasr, protesters burned tires and blocked the entrance to the port after operations had briefly resumed on Thursday morning (local time).

Internet access remains restricted through most parts of Iraq. According to media reports, service returned earlier on Thursday but was cut off again around 13:00. It is unclear how long the restrictions will remain in place.

Heightened security measures and disruptions to transportation and business are to be expected in Baghdad and other major urban centers over the coming days as protests and the nightly curfew continues. Disruptions to internet and telecommunications services are also expected to continue amid the unrest. Clashes between protesters and security forces are likely around the protest sites.

Context

Demonstrations broke out on October 1 to protest perceived government corruption, inadequate provision of public services, and a lack of job opportunities. Following weeks of relative calm, demonstrations violently resumed on October 24-25, coinciding with the deadline issued by Grand Ayatollah Sistani to the government to produce a report on who in the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) was responsible for firing at civilians during previous demonstrations. At least 260 people have been killed and 10,000 wounded since protests began. On October 31, President Barham Saleh announced that Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi agreed to resign if the Iraqi parliament's party blocs can agree on a replacement.

Advice

Individuals in Baghdad and across Iraq are advised to closely monitor the situation, avoid all protests and large public gatherings due to potential violence, prepare for disruptions to transportation and business in areas affected by anti-government demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

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.