Iraq: Internet service partially restored in Baghdad November 10 /update 46

Event

Internet service has partially been restored as of the morning (local time) of Sunday, November 10, as protesters continue to occupy parts of Baghdad. According to international monitors, social media and messaging remains blocked throughout the country. It is unclear how long the restrictions will remain in place.

As of Sunday morning, demonstrators in Baghdad remain gathered in Tahrir Square and part of the Al-Jumariyah Bridge. According to local sources, at least four people were killed and over 100 wounded after security forces used tear gas, live ammunition, and sound bombs during attempts to disperse the crowds on the night of Saturday, November 9.

Heightened security measures and disruptions to transportation and business are to be expected in Baghdad and other major urban centers over the coming days as protests continue. Disruptions to internet and telecommunications services are also expected to continue amid the unrest. Clashes between protesters and security forces are likely around the protest sites.

Context

Demonstrations broke out on October 1 to protest perceived government corruption, inadequate provision of public services, and a lack of job opportunities. Following weeks of relative calm, demonstrations violently resumed on October 24-25, coinciding with the deadline issued by Grand Ayatollah Sistani to the government to produce a report on who in the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) was responsible for firing at civilians during previous demonstrations. At least 260 people have been killed and 10,000 wounded since protests began. On October 31, President Barham Saleh announced that Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi agreed to resign if the Iraqi parliament's party blocs can agree on a replacement.

Advice

Individuals in Baghdad and across Iraq are advised to closely monitor the situation, avoid all protests and large public gatherings due to potential violence, prepare for disruptions to transportation and business in areas affected by anti-government demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas with proper security protocols in place, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.