Iraq: Authorities extend curfew in Sulaymaniyah and Halabja as of Dec. 11; further protests are planned /update 4

Event

Authorities in Sulaymaniyah and Halabja in northern Iraq extended a curfew Dec. 10, which was originally enforced for 24 hours from Dec. 9 in response to violence and clashes between security forces and protesters. Inter-city travel in numerous areas also reportedly remains banned. It is likely that officials will continue to extend movement restrictions until the unrest has abated. Extensions could be announced at short notice. Unauthorized demonstrations are also banned. The extended restrictions coincide with reported calls for further protests by activists, including Dec. 11.

Security forces will remain deployed and maintain a heightened security posture over the coming days. Security personnel will almost certainly deploy to further protest sites to enforce orders against demonstrations. Protesters will continue to focus on government buildings and could also gather in city centers and public squares. Additional clashes between security forces and protesters are likely. Ground travel and business disruptions are likely near any future demonstrations that materialize. Protests may also impact major road routes, including access points to ports of entry and exit.

Context

Demonstrators have taken to the streets to protest the political leadership, high unemployment rate, lack of public services, and the non-payment of civil servants' salaries, since at least Dec. 3. The unrest, which has left several people dead, has focused on several towns and cities, including Penjwen, Chamchamal, Ranya, Kalar, Kifri, Bazian, Halabja, and Sulaymaniyah. Demonstrators have attacked local political offices belonging to the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), and Gorran Movement. Related and similar incidents will likely continue through at least mid-December. Protests against alleged corruption, in addition to calls for greater political transparency, have previously occurred in Sulaymaniyah Governorate. More recently, protests have taken place against austerity measures. Demonstrations will likely persist absent major concessions from authorities.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a standard security precaution. Exercise caution near likely demonstration sites. Leave immediately and take refuge in a secure, non-governmental building if clashes erupt or demonstrators begin engaging in acts of vandalism. Monitor local media for details concerning protest activity, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Follow police instructions. Plan for road travel disruptions. Reconfirm the status of routes with trusted contacts before travel. Reconfirm business appointments. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.