Iraq: Protesters target political party offices in Nasiriyah following IED attack August 22

Event

Protesters used a heavy construction vehicle to damage political party offices in the southern city of Nasiriyah on Saturday, August 22, a day after an improvised explosive device (IED) attack on their sit-in camp. The local headquarters of the Dawa Party was reportedly demolished by protesters, whilst offices of the Badr organization, Al Asaib al-Haq, Hezbollah, and the Hikama party were also damaged and set alight. The unrest came hours after at least 11 protesters were injured in a suspected IED blast at their Haboubi Square protest camp on Friday evening, 21 August.

Further unrest and political violence are likely in the southern region in the medium term.  

Advice

Those in Nasiriyah are advised to closely monitor the situation, avoid all protests and large public gatherings, anticipate disruptions to transportation and services in areas affected by 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.