Iraq: Casualties reported at protest in Basra November 6

Event

At least one protester was killed and several others injured as security forces opened fire in an attempt to disperse a demonstration in Basra on Friday, November 6. The demonstrators were reportedly attempting to set up a protest camp in the city's Al-Bahriya Square. Local sources report that a further 100 protesters were arrested. Protests were reported in urban centers in central and southern Iraq on Friday, including in Baghdad, Diwaniyah, Nasiriyah, and Wasit. The protesters are demanding that security forces be held accountable for the deaths of demonstrators since mass unrest broke out in October 2020, as well as demanding government reform.

Further protests are likely in Basra in response to the killing, and continued anti-government protests are to be expected nationwide over the near to medium term. 

Advice

Those in Iraq 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.