09 Dec 2022 | 05:40 AM UTC
Iraq: Activists plan to protest at Tahrir Square in Baghdad Dec. 9
Activists plan to protest at Tahrir Square in Baghdad, Iraq, from 16:00 Dec. 9. Increased security, localized transport disruptions likely.
Event
Protesters plan to gather at Tahrir Square in Baghdad from 16:00 Dec. 9 to demand the release of prominent activist Haider al-Zaidi. Authorities arrested al-Zaidi in June for his alleged criticism of the Iran-backed Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) and recently sentenced him to three years in prison. Hundreds of individuals could attend the demonstration.
Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near Tahrir Square through late Dec. 9. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse.
Advice
Avoid the protest due to the potential for clashes. Plan for road travel delays near Tahrir Square Dec. 9. Heed instructions from the security forces. If any violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a non-government building.
