Iraq: Anti-Sweden protest to take place at 18:00 in Tahrir Square, Baghdad, July 20 /update 1

Event

Activists plan to gather and protest in Tahrir Square, Baghdad, from 18:00 July 20. The purpose of the action is to denounce the Swedish government's decision to permit the desecration of a Quran, along with the Iraqi flag, and pictures of Muqtada al-Sadr and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during a protest in Stockholm, Sweden. Associated protests may also take place near the Swedish Embassy.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near Tahrir Square and in the center of Baghdad through the evening of July 20. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse. Protests elsewhere in the country over the issue remain possible in the coming days. Tensions between Iraq and Sweden could result in severing of relations in various sectors, including diplomatic and business.

Context

Protesters stormed the Swedish Embassy early July 20 and set fires throughout the compound. The action was in response to the Swedish government’s decision to permit the July 20 protest in Stockholm. In response to the controversy, the Iraqi Prime Minister has expelled the Swedish Ambassador and recalled Iraq's charge d’affaires in Sweden.

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 July 20.