03 Apr 2023 | 04:23 AM UTC
Iraq: Al-Sadr supporters plan nationwide protests night of April 3
Al-Sadr supporters plan protests across Iraq night of April 3. Increased security, localized transport disruptions likely.
Event
Supporters of prominent Shi'a cleric Muqtada al-Sadr plan to protest nationwide the night of April 3 to denounce Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani's virtual participation in a summit that was also attended by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Protesters worry that the move could lead to the possible normalization of relations between Iraq and Israel. Hundreds of individuals protested in Baghdad April 2 with thousands more expected to attend the nationwide demonstrations April 3. Some of the gathering locations include:
Amarah: Maysan Governorate building from 19:30
Diwaniyah: Sadrist office on al-Mawakeb Street from 20:30
Hillah: Shrine of Imam Ali of al-Shawi from 20:30
Karbala: Al-Hurr Shrine from 20:30
Kut: Grand Mosque from 20:00
Samawah: Grand Mosque from 20:30
Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near gathering sites through late April 3. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or ignore police orders to disperse.
Advice
Avoid all protests due to the potential for clashes. Heed the advice of security personnel. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the affected areas April 3.
