Iraq: Anti-government protesters clash with police in Baghdad on July 27 /update 129

Event

On Monday, July 27, clashes between anti-government protesters and security forces in the early morning resulted in the death of at least two protesters as police used tear gas to disperse crowds. The two fatalities were reportedly killed after being directly hit by tear gas canisters fired at close range. Several more people were reportedly injured, and security forces allegedly obstructed ambulances attempting to access the casualties.

Following weeks of relative calm due to restrictions in place amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, anti-government protesters again took to the streets in Baghdad and several other southern cities on Sunday, July 26, amid continued anger over increases of power outages, with temperatures of over 50°C (122°F), overwhelming generators. The protests in Baghdad centered around the central Tahrir Square.

Further protests and a heightened security presence are to be expected throughout Iraq in the near term.

Advice

Individuals in Iraq are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence, budget ample travel time, and obey instructions issued by 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.