Iraq: Protesters storm parliament building in Baghdad late July 27 /update 1

Event

Hundreds of demonstrators have stormed the Iraqi parliament in Baghdad as of late July 27 to denounce the nomination of Mohammed Shia al-Sudani for prime minister. Unconfirmed reports indicate that some demonstrators intend to stage a sit-in protest in the building. The breach comes after security forces clashed with protesters attempting to enter the Green Zone; although riot police reportedly fired water cannons at the demonstrators near entrances to the area, many nonetheless dismantled concrete barriers surrounding the zone and gained access. No casualties were immediately reported in connection with the day's events.

Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence in the Green Zone over the coming hours, especially around government buildings. Localized transport disruptions are likely in the area through at least late July 27. Additional politically motivated protests and clashes are possible in Baghdad and in other major Iraqi cities over the short term.

Advice

Avoid the protest activity as a standard precaution and to mitigate likely ground transport disruptions in the surrounding area. Heed security forces' instructions. If violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building.