Iraq: Reports of clashes in Nasiriyah November 27 /update 1

Event

Emerging reports on media outlets indicate clashes have occurred and are ongoing amid protests taking place in Nasiriyah (Dhi Qar province) on Friday, November 27. Media reports suggest al-Sadr supporters have attacked grass-roots protesters in Al Haboubi Square. There have been reports of tents being set alight and live-bullets fired. Unconfirmed reports say at least one protester has been killed and 50 others have been injured. Further details are awaited.

Nationwide demonstrations are taking place throughout the country on Friday, organized by activists associated with Shia Muslim cleric Muqtada al-Sadr in support of his candidacy in the June 2021 parliamentary elections. Additional protests are expected at Tahrir Square in Baghdad and in other major cities.

A heightened security presence is likely in the vicinity of the demonstrations. Localized disruptions should also be anticipated in the area. Further clashes are likely in the near term.

Advice

Those in Nasiriyah are advised to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, monitor developments, anticipate associated disruptions, and heed official instructions issued by local authorities.