Iraq: Protesters torch office of television channel in Baghdad amid Ashura celebrations August 31

Event

Protesters torched the office of Al Dijlah Tarab television channel in Baghdad on Monday, August 31, amid Ashura celebrations. Reportedly, the channel aired a music concert which protesters say was an insult to their holy rituals. An arrest warrant was reportedly issued for the owner of the channel Jamal Al Karabouli on Monday for religious offences.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in Baghdad in the immediate term.

Context

The day of Ashura is marked by Muslims as a whole, but for Shia Muslims it is a major religious commemoration of the martyrdom at Karbala of Hussein, a grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.

Advice

Those in Morocco are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.