Iraq: Security forces responding to protest in front of the Central Bank of Iraq in Baghdad Jan. 4

Event

Security forces are responding to a protest outside the Central Bank of Iraq in Baghdad Jan. 4. The purpose of the action is to denounce the rise in the exchange rate of the Iraqi dinar to the US dollar.

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence around the protest area in the next few hours. Transport and business disruptions due to road closures and checkpoints are possible near the Central Bank Jan. 4. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to the potential for clashes. Heed the advice 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 Jan. 4.