05 Nov 2021 | 01:56 PM UTC
Iraq: At least three demonstrators killed, dozens injured amid clashes with security forces near the checkpoint one of Baghdad's Green Zone Nov. 5 /update 1
Protesters killed and injured amid ongoing violent protests denouncing election results in Baghdad, Iraq, Nov. 5.
Event
At least three protesters have been killed and dozens more injured amid ongoing clashes with security forces at checkpoint one in the Green Zone, Baghdad, Nov. 5. Demonstrations are taking place to denounce the results of Iraq's Oct. 10 parliamentary elections. Local media reports indicate protesters have blocked key thoroughfares leading into the city; unconfirmed reports allege security forces have closed roads leading into the Green Zone.
Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture near the Green Zone, including around governmental buildings until the situation stabilizes. Localized transport disruptions are likely in the area through at least late Nov. 5. Additional clashes between demonstrators and security forces are likely over the coming hours.
Context
Turnout was low in Iraq's Oct. 10 parliamentary elections - only about 43 percent of eligible voters cast a ballot, compared to 44.5 percent in the last election in 2018. Prominent Shi'a cleric and nationalist political leader Muqtada al-Sadr's Saairun Alliance won the plurality of the Oct. 10 vote, securing 73 of the parliament's 329 seats. Notably, Iran-backed parties associated with Shi'a militias lost seats, only securing around 20 compared to their 48 seats gained in the 2018 vote. The Fatah Alliance, representing pro-Iran militias, has accordingly vowed to "not accept these fabricated results, whatever the cost," raising the likelihood of post-election unrest and violence, especially if pro-Iran militias are left out of an eventual governing coalition.
Advice
Consider deferring travel to Tahrir Square, the Green Zone, and the surrounding area through late Nov. 5 due to the potential for clashes. Avoid all protests. Plan for localized transport and business disruptions. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a safe nongovernment building. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
