Iraq: Protests ongoing in Basra and Zubayr November 25 /update 66

Event

As of 09:00 (local time) on Monday, November 25, protesters are still gathered in Basra and in Zubayr, disrupting access to nearby oilfields. Approximately 40 protesters have constructed barricades and are blocking the route at the Railway Line (G78), west of Zubayr. Protesters in Basra are blocking nearly all of the roads out of the city, according to local sources. Security forces using live ammunition and tear gas killed several protesters and wounded at least 35 more in Basra on Sunday, November 24.

At least one civilian was killed as thousands protested in Baghdad's Tahrir Square on Sunday.

Heightened security measures and disruptions to transportation and businesses are to be expected in Baghdad, Basra, Zubayr, 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 near all protest sites.

Context

Demonstrations broke out in Iraq 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. An estimated 340 people have been killed and 15,000 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 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.