22 Jul 2023 | 02:31 PM UTC
Iraq: Activists against burning of the Quran call for nationwide protests July 22
Protests to denounce the burning of the Quran to occur nationwide in Iraq July 22; main protest planned in Baghdad. Use caution.
Event
Activists called for nationwide protests, including in Basra and other southern governorates, and plan to gather and protest in Tahrir Square, Baghdad, from 18:00 July 22. The purpose of the action is to denounce the burnings of the Quran, along with the desecration of the Iraqi flag and pictures of Muqtada al-Sadr and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, that occurred in Sweden and Denmark over the past few days. Reports indicate that security forces have deployed additional personnel in Baghdad and closed Al-Jumhuriya Bridge in anticipation of the protest. Reports indicate that organizers have called for associated demonstrations throughout the country.
Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near Tahrir Square and in the center of Baghdad late July 22. Further clashes between activists and security forces remain possible, especially if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse. Additional gatherings may occur elsewhere in the country in the coming days over the same issue. Tensions between Iraq, Sweden, and Denmark could prompt the severing of ties in various sectors, including diplomacy and business.
Context
Protests to denounce the burning of the Quran have increased in frequency and violence in the past few days in Iraq. On July 20, protesters stormed the Swedish Embassy and set fires throughout the compound. Additional protests occurred in Baghdad. On July 21, several peaceful protests occurred after Friday prayers in majority-Muslim countries, including Lebanon, Iraq, and Iran. Early July 22, protesters attempted to enter the Green Zone in Baghdad to protest outside the Danish embassy. Security forces dispersed the demonstration with tear gas. In Basra, armed militants also targeted vehicles belonging to a Danish Company; no casualties were reported.
Advice
Avoid the protest due to the potential for clashes. Heed instructions of security personnel and leave the area immediately at the first sign of any confrontation. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the affected area in the coming days.
