15 Nov 2019 | 07:52 PM UTC
Iraq: Protests continue in Baghdad leaving three dead November 15 /update 49
Clashes between protesters and security forces leave three dead in Baghdad November 15; associated disruptions and further clashes between security forces and protesters expected
Event
Security forces used live fire and tear gas to disperse protesters in Khulani Square in Baghdad on the morning (local time) of Friday, November 15, killing three people and wounding dozens of others. These clashes followed a temporary respite in violence after Iraq's victory over neighboring Iran in a soccer match on the night of Thursday, November 14. Demonstrations have since resumed, with hundreds of people reportedly protesting in the main camp in Tahrir Square as of Friday morning.
Heightened security measures and disruptions to transportation and businesses 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. More than 300 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.
