Nearly a thousand protesters took to the streets in Baghdad at the call of Muslim cleric Moqtada Sadr, on Saturday, who then attempted a demonstration by marching to Baghdad's Green Zone housing foreign embassies.

The demonstration was arranged in response to an apparent desecration of the Muslim holy book.

On Friday, the extreme right group Danske Patrioter posted a video of a man burning what seemed to be a Quran on its Facebook page.

Copenhagen police deputy chief Trine Fisker told news agency AFP that "not more than a handful" of protesters had gathered Friday across from the Iraqi embassy.

"I can also confirm there was a book burnt. We do not know which book it was," she said. "It was quite peaceful."

In central Baghdad, the protesters gathered in the pre-dawn darkness at Tahrir Square.

"Yes, yes to the Quran!" shouted the protesters, mostly young men.&nbsp;

Some of them carried portraits of Sadr, who has a following of millions among the country's majority Shiite population and also exerts great influence over the country's politics.

Security forces cut two bridges leading to the high-security Green Zone where governmental institutions and foreign embassies are located.

The protesters made attempts to crash through before the security officials pushed them back after which they ultimately dispersed, an interior ministry official told news agency AFP.

As per the official, the demonstrators were making attempts to reach the embassy of Denmark.

<h2>Quran burners should be handed over for prosecution, says Khamenei&nbsp;</h2>

On Saturday, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei released a statement saying that the persons behind desecrating the holy book Quran, should face the "most severe punishment". He further demanded Sweden hand them over for prosecution in Islamic countries, Iran's state media reported.

"All Islamic scholars agree that those who desecrate the Koran deserved the most severe punishment... The duty of that (Swedish) government is to hand over the perpetrator to the judicial systems of Islamic countries," Khamenei said in a statement carried by state media.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-attempted-drone-attack-on-crimea-alleges-moscow-backed-authorities-618395">&nbsp;Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack, cluster munition fired in Russian village</a>

<h2>Iraq's foreign ministry condemns desecration of the holy book</h2>

Early on Saturday, Iraq's foreign ministry had condemned "the desecration of the holy Quran and the Iraqi flag" in front of the embassy in Denmark.

The ministry released a statement saying that "these actions provoke reactions and put all the parties in delicate situations".

In a separate statement, the ministry said "we cannot allow to happen again" what occurred at the Swedish embassy.

It reaffirmed Baghdad's "full commitment" to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and said it guarantees "the protection and security provided to diplomatic teams".

<h2>Sweden's embassy set on fire by protesters in Baghdad</h2>

Sweden's embassy was set on fire by protesters in the Iraqi capital Baghdad early on Thursday (July 20), stated an AFP journalist, ahead of the Quran's planned burning in Sweden.&nbsp;

According to an AFP correspondent, smoke was seen rising from the Swedish embassy building and many demonstrators were still present on the scene after the torching of the embassy as authorities deployed a large number of Iraqi riot police.

"We are mobilised today to denounce the burning of the Quran, which is all about love and faith," said protester Hassan Ahmed, while speaking to AFP. "We demand that the Swedish government and the Iraqi government stop this type of initiative," he added.&nbsp;

Then later on Thursday (July 20), Iraq cut diplomatic ties with Sweden and ordered the Swedish ambassador to leave the country.

Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani "instructed the Swedish ambassador in Baghdad to leave Iraqi territory", his office said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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Nearly a thousand protesters took to the streets in Baghdad at the call of Muslim cleric Moqtada Sadr, on Saturday, who then attempted a demonstration by marching to Baghdad's Green Zone housing foreign embassies.

Nearly a thousand protesters took to the streets in Baghdad at the call of Muslim cleric Moqtada Sadr, on Saturday, who then attempted a demonstration by marching to Baghdad's Green Zone housing foreign embassies. The demonstration was arranged in response to an apparent desecration of the Muslim holy book. On Friday, the extreme right group Danske Patrioter posted a video of a man burning what seemed to be a Quran on its Facebook page. Copenhagen police deputy chief Trine Fisker told news agency AFP that "not more than a handful" of protesters had gathered Friday across from the Iraqi embassy. "I can also confirm there was a book burnt. We do not know which book it was," she said. "It was quite peaceful." In central Baghdad, the protesters gathered in the pre-dawn darkness at Tahrir Square. "Yes, yes to the Quran!" shouted the protesters, mostly young men. Some of them carried portraits of Sadr, who has a following of millions among the country's majority Shiite population and also exerts great influence over the country's politics. Security forces cut two bridges leading to the high-security Green Zone where governmental institutions and foreign embassies are located. The protesters made attempts to crash through before the security officials pushed them back after which they ultimately dispersed, an interior ministry official told news agency AFP. As per the official, the demonstrators were making attempts to reach the embassy of Denmark. Quran burners should be handed over for prosecution, says Khamenei On Saturday, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei released a statement saying that the persons behind desecrating the holy book Quran, should face the "most severe punishment". He further demanded Sweden hand them over for prosecution in Islamic countries, Iran's state media reported. "All Islamic scholars agree that those who desecrate the Koran deserved the most severe punishment... The duty of that (Swedish) government is to hand over the perpetrator to the judicial systems of Islamic countries," Khamenei said in a statement carried by state media. Also read: Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack, cluster munition fired in Russian village Iraq's foreign ministry condemns desecration of the holy book Early on Saturday, Iraq's foreign ministry had condemned "the desecration of the holy Quran and the Iraqi flag" in front of the embassy in Denmark. The ministry released a statement saying that "these actions provoke reactions and put all the parties in delicate situations". In a separate statement, the ministry said "we cannot allow to happen again" what occurred at the Swedish embassy. It reaffirmed Baghdad's "full commitment" to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and said it guarantees "the protection and security provided to diplomatic teams". Sweden's embassy set on fire by protesters in Baghdad Sweden's embassy was set on fire by protesters in the Iraqi capital Baghdad early on Thursday (July 20), stated an AFP journalist, ahead of the Quran's planned burning in Sweden. According to an AFP correspondent, smoke was seen rising from the Swedish embassy building and many demonstrators were still present on the scene after the torching of the embassy as authorities deployed a large number of Iraqi riot police. "We are mobilised today to denounce the burning of the Quran, which is all about love and faith," said protester Hassan Ahmed, while speaking to AFP. "We demand that the Swedish government and the Iraqi government stop this type of initiative," he added. Then later on Thursday (July 20), Iraq cut diplomatic ties with Sweden and ordered the Swedish ambassador to leave the country. Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani "instructed the Swedish ambassador in Baghdad to leave Iraqi territory", his office said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Protesters storm Baghdad's Green Zone over desecration of Quran in Denmark

The Swedish embassy in Baghdad came under literal fire by the demonstrators ahead of a planned burning of Quran in Stockholm. In New Zealand's Auckland, a 'serious' shooting incident killed two people ahead of the opening of Women's FIFA World Cup. Meanwhile, in India, the disturbing visuals of two women being paraded naked in northeastern state of Manipur, which is under the grip of ethnic violence for over two months, have led to massive outrage on and off the social media.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-torch-swedens-embassy-in-baghdad-ahead-of-planned-burning-of-quran-617645">Protesters torch Sweden's embassy in Baghdad ahead of planned burning of Quran</a>

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The embassy of Sweden was set on fire by protesters in the Iraqi capital Baghdad early on Thursday, stated an AFP journalist, ahead of the Quran's planned burning in Sweden. The government authorities in Sweden had given approval to an assembly which is scheduled to be held later on Thursday outside the Iraqi embassy in Stockholm where organisers have planned to burn an Iraqi flag and a copy of the Quran.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/auckland-shooting-police-seal-off-city-streets-amid-reports-of-gunman-617634">Auckland shooting: At least two killed hours before Women’s World Cup opening</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/20/368275-the-battle-for-kyiv-56.jpg?imwidth=1920" /> 
In New Zealand's major city of Auckland, a shooter fatally shot two individuals at a construction site on Thursday (July 20). The incident&nbsp;coincides&nbsp;with the&nbsp;FIFA Women's World Cup soccer tournament that begins the same day.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-strike-on-ukraines-mykolaiv-injures-nine-including-children-617642">Russian strike on Ukraine's Mykolaiv injures nine, including children</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/05/356941-ukraine.jpeg?imwidth=1920" /> 
 
Ukrainian authorities claimed early Thursday (July 20) that nine people were injured, including five children, after a Russian strike on the Ukrainian port city of Mykolaiv.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-women-paraded-naked-sexually-assaulted-in-violence-hit-manipur-state-video-sparks-outrage-617602">India: Two women paraded naked, sexually assaulted in violence-hit Manipur, video sparks outrage</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/19/368250-manipur-1.jpg?imwidth=1920" /> 
 
Two women from Kuki-Zo tribe were paraded naked and sexually assaulted by a mob of men in violence-hit Manipur state in India.

A video of the incident went viral on Wednesday (July 19), and according to media reports, it took place about two months ago when the violence first started.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/netflix-adds-nearly-6mn-new-subscribers-amid-widening-password-sharing-crackdown-617654">Netflix adds nearly 6mn new subscribers amid widening password-sharing crackdown</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/24/353933-untitled-design-2023-05-24t021657424.png?imwidth=1920" />Netflix said that it added 5.9 million new subscribers globally in the second quarter of 2023 amid its password-sharing crackdown.

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The Swedish embassy in Baghdad came under literal fire by the demonstrators ahead of a planned burning of Quran in Stockholm. In New Zealand's Auckland, a 'serious' shooting incident killed two people ahead of the opening of Women's FIFA World Cup.

The Swedish embassy in Baghdad came under literal fire by the demonstrators ahead of a planned burning of Quran in Stockholm. In New Zealand's Auckland, a 'serious' shooting incident killed two people ahead of the opening of Women's FIFA World Cup. Meanwhile, in India, the disturbing visuals of two women being paraded naked in northeastern state of Manipur, which is under the grip of ethnic violence for over two months, have led to massive outrage on and off the social media. Click on the headlines to read more. Protesters torch Sweden's embassy in Baghdad ahead of planned burning of Quran The embassy of Sweden was set on fire by protesters in the Iraqi capital Baghdad early on Thursday, stated an AFP journalist, ahead of the Quran's planned burning in Sweden. The government authorities in Sweden had given approval to an assembly which is scheduled to be held later on Thursday outside the Iraqi embassy in Stockholm where organisers have planned to burn an Iraqi flag and a copy of the Quran. Auckland shooting: At least two killed hours before Women’s World Cup opening In New Zealand's major city of Auckland, a shooter fatally shot two individuals at a construction site on Thursday (July 20). The incident coincides with the FIFA Women's World Cup soccer tournament that begins the same day. Russian strike on Ukraine's Mykolaiv injures nine, including children Ukrainian authorities claimed early Thursday (July 20) that nine people were injured, including five children, after a Russian strike on the Ukrainian port city of Mykolaiv. India: Two women paraded naked, sexually assaulted in violence-hit Manipur, video sparks outrage Two women from Kuki-Zo tribe were paraded naked and sexually assaulted by a mob of men in violence-hit Manipur state in India. A video of the incident went viral on Wednesday (July 19), and according to media reports, it took place about two months ago when the violence first started. Netflix adds nearly 6mn new subscribers amid widening password-sharing crackdown Netflix said that it added 5.9 million new subscribers globally in the second quarter of 2023 amid its password-sharing crackdown. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Morning brief: Swedish embassy torched in Baghdad, sexual violence in India's Manipur, and more

Protests outside Swedish embassy in Baghdad, Tehran over burning of Quran

A day after the Iraqi customs department issued orders to enforce the alcohol sale and import ban, Christian politicians have coalesced to overturn the legislation.

A day after the Iraqi customs department issued orders to enforce the alcohol sale and import ban, Christian politicians have coalesced to overturn the legislation. Members of the Babylon Movement - a group which has five seats in Iraq's parliament filed a lawsuit, arguing the legislation was undemocratic. The group added that the ban infringed upon the rights of minorities and their freedom. “This ban is unconstitutional, as the constitution acknowledges the rights of non-Muslim minorities and ethnic groups who live alongside Muslims in Iraq,” said Joseph Slaiwa, a Christian lawmaker. “To those Muslim lawmakers I say: Take care of your religion and leave ours for us, we know how to deal with it.” The consumption of alcohol in Shiite majority Iraq is frowned upon as Islam forbids it, However, alcohol has been available in the big cities of Iraq, mainly in the shops run by Christians. Read more: Iraq govt directs customs agency to start enforcing ban on import of alcohol The new legislation, which bans the sale, import or production of alcohol, was originally approved by parliament in 2016 but only became law last month, after its publication in the official gazette. The bill was put forth by Mahmoud al-Hassan, a lawmaker from the State of Law - the largest bloc in the Iraqi parliament. ALSO WATCH | An ancient restaurant unearthed by archaeologists in Iraq “The constitution preserves democracy and the rights of non-Muslim groups, but these rights must not violate the religion of Islam,” said al-Hassan, before adding, “Some of the lawmakers’ vote was religiously-motivated, but many others voted to avoid anything unconstitutional.” The law imposes a fine between 10 million and 25 million dinars ($7,700-$19,000) on the violators. Most Muslim countries have restrictive policies regarding liquor but only a few such as Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have imposed a complete ban on the sale. The involvement of Christian political groups has sparked a debate with the minorities demanding that the executive branch overturn the decision on procedural and other grounds. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Christian politicians protest alcohol ban in Iraq, call the legislation 'undemocratic'

Several people were killed after Iranian armed forced bombed Kurdish targets in Iraq for the third time in five days. Iraq responded by summoning the Iranian envoy in Baghdad. Is the anti-hijab unrest spiraling into a broader conflict? Priyanka Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Iran bombs Kurds amid anti-hijab unrest

At least 30 people were killed in clashes following the retirement of prominent Iraqi cleric Muqtada al-Sadr. The protesters withdrew from Baghdad's green zone after an ultimatum issued by Sadr himself. Palki Sharma Upadhyay decodes the power struggle in Iraq.

Gravitas: At least 30 killed in Baghdad clashes

The violent protests in Iraq got worse on Monday as the clashes between the country’s forces and Iraqi Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's followers ended up claiming 15 lives and injuring over a hundred people.&nbsp;

The protesters were already staging sit-ins in front of the Presidential palace in Baghdad and the news of Al-Sadr quitting politics amidst the ongoing political crisis prompted them to break into the Green Zone.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-how-political-crisis-and-al-sadrs-resignation-lead-clashes-in-iraq-511334">Explainer: How political crisis and Al-Sadr's resignation lead to clashes in Iraq</a>

According to the local media reports, the military ended up using stun grenades and tear gas in order to contain the crowd and in the process, a number of people ended up losing their lives on Monday.&nbsp;

It was a public uproar similar to what the world witnessed in Sri Lanka after the public broke into the residence of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's palace&nbsp;in protests over the economic crisis in the country.&nbsp;

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Right now: 
Sadrist protestors swimming in the presidential palace pool.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Baghdad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Baghdad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iraq?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iraq</a> <a href="https://t.co/H20wUVsHgb">pic.twitter.com/H20wUVsHgb</a>
— Suhad Talabany (@TalabanySuhad) <a href="https://twitter.com/TalabanySuhad/status/1564240793686138884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The similarities did not end there as Iraqi protestors were pictured cooling down in the pool – something that also happened when the protestors in Sri Lanka jumped into Rajapaksa’s&nbsp;pool in Colombo.&nbsp;

The conflict was caused by Iraq’s political crisis as the country has been without a stable government for more than 10 months – the longest since the United States attacked the country in 2003.

The parties were unable to find a solution after Al-Sadr’s bloc became the biggest faction in parliament but fell short of securing a majority in last year’s elections. &nbsp;The pro-Iran Coordination Framework picked&nbsp;Mohammed Shia al-Sudani as the Prime Minister but the protestors were not pleased. &nbsp;

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The violent protests in Iraq got worse on Monday as the clashes between the country’s forces and Iraqi Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's followers ended up claiming 15 lives and injuring over a hundred people.

The violent protests in Iraq got worse on Monday as the clashes between the country’s forces and Iraqi Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's followers ended up claiming 15 lives and injuring over a hundred people. The protesters were already staging sit-ins in front of the Presidential palace in Baghdad and the news of Al-Sadr quitting politics amidst the ongoing political crisis prompted them to break into the Green Zone. Also read | Explainer: How political crisis and Al-Sadr's resignation lead to clashes in Iraq According to the local media reports, the military ended up using stun grenades and tear gas in order to contain the crowd and in the process, a number of people ended up losing their lives on Monday. It was a public uproar similar to what the world witnessed in Sri Lanka after the public broke into the residence of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's palace in protests over the economic crisis in the country. Right now: Sadrist protestors swimming in the presidential palace pool.#Baghdad #Iraq pic.twitter.com/H20wUVsHgb — Suhad Talabany (@TalabanySuhad) August 29, 2022 × The similarities did not end there as Iraqi protestors were pictured cooling down in the pool – something that also happened when the protestors in Sri Lanka jumped into Rajapaksa’s pool in Colombo. The conflict was caused by Iraq’s political crisis as the country has been without a stable government for more than 10 months – the longest since the United States attacked the country in 2003. The parties were unable to find a solution after Al-Sadr’s bloc became the biggest faction in parliament but fell short of securing a majority in last year’s elections. The pro-Iran Coordination Framework picked Mohammed Shia al-Sudani as the Prime Minister but the protestors were not pleased.

Iraqi protesters take dip in pool after storming presidential palace in Baghdad - WATCH

At least 15 people were shot dead in Baghdad following clashes between rival groups. Iraq declared a nationwide curfew after supporters of Muqtada Al-Sadr stormed the government palace in Baghdad's Green Zone.

Curfew imposed after Sadr supporters enter government palace in Baghdad

Gunfire and shelling reported in Baghdad, Muqtada Al-Sadr goes on a hunger strike

Two protesters were killed and Iraq declared a nationwide curfew after supporters of Muqtada Al-Sadr stormed the government palace in Baghdad's Green Zone. Molly Gambhir tells you why Iraq could soon descend into a civil war.

WION Fineprint | 2 protesters killed in clashes in Baghdad's Green Zone

China has gained a major foothold in oil-rich Iraq, shaking up Western domination in fields from energy to construction, even as some warn that infrastructure projects could leave Baghdad in debt. Ghadi Francis tells you more on The West Asia Post.

The West Asia Post | China cements influence in Iraq through oil & infrastructure

The country of Iraq is in turmoil as the protests and counter - protests wreak havoc in the nation. The supporters of Shiite muslim cleric Moqtada Sadr occupy the parliament, breaking the cement barriers.

Counter-Protests against Pro-Sadr group in Iraq

Iraq on Monday (August 1) saw thousands on the streets of capital Baghdad in counter-protests against rival supporters of Shiite Muslim cleric Moqtada Sadr occupied country's parliament for third day. A political stand-off has pitted two key factions of Shiite political scene against each other. Sadr, the Muslim cleric, has devoted following of millions. The other faction is the powerful pro-Iran Coordination Framework.

"The people will not allow a coup," read placards held by supporters of the Coordination Framework as they gathered on a main street leading to the Green Zone, the home of parliament, which Sadr's supporters have been occupying since Saturday.

Watch | Iraq Political Crisis: Al-Sadr supporters enter Baghdad's green zone

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"It is the parliament of the people, of all Iraqis, not the parliament of a select group", said 25-year-old protester Ahmed Ali, condemning "the storming" of government institutions. He was quoted by AFP.

Water cannons were fired by police to prevent the crowds from crossing a bridge that led to the Green Zone. Thousands of Sadr supporters are inside the zone maintaining the protest. They breached the normally secure Green Zone on Saturday (July 30). Government buildings and embassies are located inside the Green Zone.

"They wanted to show their political strength, to show that they too have a base that can take over the Iraqi street," said political scientist Ihsan al-Shammari, from the University of Baghdad.

In multi-confessional and multi-ethnic Iraq, government formation has involved complex negotiations since a 2003 US-led invasion toppled dictator Saddam Hussein.

In this case, the protracted political deadlock has left the country without a government, a new prime minister or a new president.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iraq on Monday (August 1) saw thousands on the streets of capital Baghdad in counter-protests against rival supporters of Shiite Muslim cleric Moqtada Sadr occupied country's parliament for third day.

Iraq on Monday (August 1) saw thousands on the streets of capital Baghdad in counter-protests against rival supporters of Shiite Muslim cleric Moqtada Sadr occupied country's parliament for third day. A political stand-off has pitted two key factions of Shiite political scene against each other. Sadr, the Muslim cleric, has devoted following of millions. The other faction is the powerful pro-Iran Coordination Framework. "The people will not allow a coup," read placards held by supporters of the Coordination Framework as they gathered on a main street leading to the Green Zone, the home of parliament, which Sadr's supporters have been occupying since Saturday. Watch | Iraq Political Crisis: Al-Sadr supporters enter Baghdad's green zone × "It is the parliament of the people, of all Iraqis, not the parliament of a select group", said 25-year-old protester Ahmed Ali, condemning "the storming" of government institutions. He was quoted by AFP. Water cannons were fired by police to prevent the crowds from crossing a bridge that led to the Green Zone. Thousands of Sadr supporters are inside the zone maintaining the protest. They breached the normally secure Green Zone on Saturday (July 30). Government buildings and embassies are located inside the Green Zone. "They wanted to show their political strength, to show that they too have a base that can take over the Iraqi street," said political scientist Ihsan al-Shammari, from the University of Baghdad. In multi-confessional and multi-ethnic Iraq, government formation has involved complex negotiations since a 2003 US-led invasion toppled dictator Saddam Hussein. In this case, the protracted political deadlock has left the country without a government, a new prime minister or a new president. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iraq: Counter-protesters take to streets in Baghdad

Iraq remains mired in a political & socio-economic crisis. Protesters have once again breached Baghdad's green zone. They were carrying portraits of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada Al-Sadr.

Iraq Political Crisis: Al-Sadr supporters enter Baghdad's green zone

Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada Al-Sadr breached Iraq’s parliament on Saturday, for the second time this week. Iraqi security forces initially used tear gas and stun grenades to try to repel the protesters.

Iraq Political Crisis: Al-Sadr supporters storm parliament in Baghdad for second time in a week

Baghdad has erupted in protests as shelling in Iraqi-Kurdistan has led to the deaths of 9 people. Baghdad has accused Ankara for the shelling on a holiday resort in the Duhok province. Mohammed Saleh gets you the details of this story.

World at War: Episode 12| Iraq accuses Turkiye of shelling in Iraqi-Kurdistan

Basra, a southern city in Iraq is witnessing blistering heat just a few days into summer. The temperature has already soared to around 45 degrees Celsius. UN ranked Iraq as one of the top five countries most vulnerable to climate change.

‘Summer of hell’: Iraq city’s scorching heat amid vulnerable climate change

In pics - Ninth sandstorm in less than two months shuts down much of Iraq

Another sandstorm hit Iraq on Monday, this is the 9th sandstorm that has hit the country since mid-April. Storms have been more frequent in the region in recent months

Iraq sandstorm: Baghdad covered in orange haze

Massive sandstorm hit the Iraqi capital of Baghdad on Monday prompting the Iraqi ministry of health to announce a state of emergency. Poor visibility conditions forced the authorities to suspend all outbound and inbound flights to Iraq.

Iraq: Residents struggle to breathe as sandstorm hits Baghdad

A massive sandstorm hit the Iraqi capital of Baghdad on Monday prompting the Iraqi Ministry of Health to announce a state of emergency. Poor visibility conditions forced the authorities to suspend all outbound and inbound flights to Iraq

Iraqis choke under a blanket of dust as severe sandstorm hits Baghdad

Iraq was covered in a thick sheet of sand as the country suffered a dust storm on Sunday. The recent storm adds to the series of dust storms that have become increasingly common in the country. According to the weather department, the phenomenon is expected to continue even today.

Iraq suffers another dust storm, flights grounded in Baghdad and Najaf

Iraq's capital Baghdad is witnessing third dust storm in two weeks. The storm has forced flights to be suspended.

Baghdad witnesses third dust storm in two weeks, flights suspended

Several rockets landed in the Baghdad International Airport compound and near an adjacent US air base on Friday, damaging at least one disused civilian aeroplane,&nbsp;Iraqi police sources said.

The police sources did not report any other damage or any injuries. The damaged aircraft was an out-of-use&nbsp;Iraqi Airways plane, they said.

Iraq's state news agency reported, citing the country's aviation authority, that there was no disruption to travel.

The US&nbsp;air base, known as Camp Victory, is located around the perimeter of Baghdad's civilian airport.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/now-robot-conducts-surgery-on-pigs-successfully-without-any-help-448430">Also read |&nbsp;Now, robot conducts surgery on pigs successfully without any help</a>

Rocket attacks have regularly struck the complex in recent years and are blamed by US and some&nbsp;Iraqi officials on Iran-aligned Shi'ite militia groups who oppose the US&nbsp;military presence in the region.

On Jan. 5, Katyusha rockets hit&nbsp;Iraqi military bases hosting US forces near Baghdad's international airport and west of the&nbsp;Iraqi capital.

A series of attacks this month, some of which the United States blames on Iran-aligned militia groups, have targeted bases or installations hosting US&nbsp;military and diplomatic personnel but have caused no U.S. casualties.

The Iran-aligned militia have in previous years carried out dozens of similar attacks, mostly causing little harm. But the attacks have become more sophisticated in the past year, including with the use of fixed-wing and multi-rotor drones.

Several rockets landed in the Baghdad International Airport compound and near an adjacent US air base on Friday, damaging at least one disused civilian aeroplane, Iraqi police sources said.

Several rockets landed in the Baghdad International Airport compound and near an adjacent US air base on Friday, damaging at least one disused civilian aeroplane, Iraqi police sources said. The police sources did not report any other damage or any injuries. The damaged aircraft was an out-of-use Iraqi Airways plane, they said. Iraq's state news agency reported, citing the country's aviation authority, that there was no disruption to travel. The US air base, known as Camp Victory, is located around the perimeter of Baghdad's civilian airport. Also read | Now, robot conducts surgery on pigs successfully without any help Rocket attacks have regularly struck the complex in recent years and are blamed by US and some Iraqi officials on Iran-aligned Shi'ite militia groups who oppose the US military presence in the region. On Jan. 5, Katyusha rockets hit Iraqi military bases hosting US forces near Baghdad's international airport and west of the Iraqi capital. A series of attacks this month, some of which the United States blames on Iran-aligned militia groups, have targeted bases or installations hosting US military and diplomatic personnel but have caused no U.S. casualties. The Iran-aligned militia have in previous years carried out dozens of similar attacks, mostly causing little harm. But the attacks have become more sophisticated in the past year, including with the use of fixed-wing and multi-rotor drones.

Several rockets hit Baghdad airport compound, civilian plane damaged

Baghdad was once considered the Arab world's cultural capital, however many of its historic, cultural backgrounds could not survive years of violence and conflict.

Afghanistan: New beginning for Baghdad book street

Iraq's security forces on Sunday released a statement saying that two rockets targetted Baghdad's highly secure Green Zone. US embassy is located in the Green Zone. Security forces said that the attack took place early Sunday. "The Green Zone in Baghdad was the target of two Katyusha rockets. The first was shot down in the air by C-RAM defence batteries, the second fell in a square, damaging two vehicles," the statement said.

Two Katyusha rockets fired at Baghdad's ultra-secure Green Zone

Iraq's security forces on Sunday released a statement saying that two rockets targetted Baghdad's highly secure Green Zone. US embassy is located in the Green Zone. Security forces said that the attack took place early Sunday.

"The Green Zone in Baghdad was the target of two Katyusha rockets. The first was shot down in the air by C-RAM defence batteries, the second fell in a square, damaging two vehicles," the statement said.

AFP quoted a security source to say that the shot down rocket fell near the US embassy, while the second came down roughly 500 metres (1,640 feet) away.

Previously, the source told AFP that two rockets had been shot down near the US embassy.

Captain Bill Urban, spokesman for the US Central Command, told AFP the incident caused no casualties.

He said no shots hit the embassy or the so-called Union III area where US-led coalition forces are based. 
No one claimed responsibility for the attack.

In recent months, dozens of rocket assaults or drone bomb attacks have targeted American troops and interests in Iraq. 
The attacks are rarely claimed but are routinely pinned on pro-Iran factions.

The latest rocket fire comes after the announcement this week of the end of the "combat mission" in Iraq of the US-led coalition against the Islamic State group.

But roughly 2,500 American soldiers and 1,000 coalition soldiers will remain deployed in Iraq to offer training, advice and assistance to national forces.

Pro-Iran factions in Iraq are calling for the departure of all US forces stationed in the country.

Sunday's attack also coincides with the 10th anniversary of the departure of US troops from Iraq on December 18, 2011, after the invasion and overthrow of former dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003.

Washington then deployed its troops to the country in 2014 to fight IS, which had captured large swathes of the nation in a lightning offensive.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iraq's security forces on Sunday released a statement saying that two rockets targetted Baghdad's highly secure Green Zone. US embassy is located in the Green Zone.

Iraq's security forces on Sunday released a statement saying that two rockets targetted Baghdad's highly secure Green Zone. US embassy is located in the Green Zone. Security forces said that the attack took place early Sunday. "The Green Zone in Baghdad was the target of two Katyusha rockets. The first was shot down in the air by C-RAM defence batteries, the second fell in a square, damaging two vehicles," the statement said. AFP quoted a security source to say that the shot down rocket fell near the US embassy, while the second came down roughly 500 metres (1,640 feet) away. Previously, the source told AFP that two rockets had been shot down near the US embassy. Captain Bill Urban, spokesman for the US Central Command, told AFP the incident caused no casualties. He said no shots hit the embassy or the so-called Union III area where US-led coalition forces are based. No one claimed responsibility for the attack. In recent months, dozens of rocket assaults or drone bomb attacks have targeted American troops and interests in Iraq. The attacks are rarely claimed but are routinely pinned on pro-Iran factions. The latest rocket fire comes after the announcement this week of the end of the "combat mission" in Iraq of the US-led coalition against the Islamic State group. But roughly 2,500 American soldiers and 1,000 coalition soldiers will remain deployed in Iraq to offer training, advice and assistance to national forces. Pro-Iran factions in Iraq are calling for the departure of all US forces stationed in the country. Sunday's attack also coincides with the 10th anniversary of the departure of US troops from Iraq on December 18, 2011, after the invasion and overthrow of former dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003. Washington then deployed its troops to the country in 2014 to fight IS, which had captured large swathes of the nation in a lightning offensive. (With inputs from agencies)

Mustafa al-Kadhimi, Prime minister of Iraq, says that he has identified the perpetrators of the failed assassination attempt on his residence in the capital Baghdad.&nbsp;

"We will pursue those who committed the crime. We know them well, and we will reveal their identities," said a statement by the prime minister's media office.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/act-of-terrorism-says-us-after-iraq-prime-minister-escapes-drone-attack-427472">Act of terrorism, says US after Iraq Prime Minister escapes drone attack</a>

Al-Kadhimi said the perpetrators are the same who killed Nibras Farman, an Iraqi National Intelligence Service (INIS) officer. Without giving any further details he added that the responsible parties will be brought to justice.

PM Al-Kadhimi was unharmed by the armed drone assassination attempt. As a result of the incident, tensions have risen in Iraq just weeks after the disputed general elections organized by Iran-backed militias.

A spokesperson for the interior ministry said three drones were used in the attack, including two that were shot down by security forces and a third that hit the residence.

On Sunday, a&nbsp;video posted by his office showed&nbsp;Kadhimi chairing a meeting with top security commanders to discuss the drone attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-prime-minister-escapes-assassination-attempt-after-explosive-laden-drone-targets-his-house-427315">Iraqi Prime Minister escapes assassination attempt</a>

"The cowardly terrorist attack that targeted the home of the prime minister last night with the aim of assassinating him, is a serious targeting of the Iraqi state by criminal armed groups," his office said in a statement after the meeting.

In the parliamentary elections on October 10, the Sadrist Movement, led by prominent Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, took the lead with more than 70 seats, while the al-Fatah (Conquest) Coalition garnered 17 seats compared with 47 in the 2018 elections.

Parties disputing the results said the elections had been fabricated and that they would not accept the results.

Watch |&nbsp;Drone attack targets Iraq PM, US condemns the 'act of terrorism'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/drone-attack-targets-iraq-pm-us-condemns-the-act-of-terrorism-427375/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

While the Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission is still considering the appeals and complaints submitted by the political parties, supporters of the parties rejecting the election results took to the streets of many Iraqi cities, including the capital Baghdad.

On Friday, protests escalated into a clash with the security forces, which resulted in two protesters being killed and dozens of security personnel and protesters wounded.

(With inputs from agencies)

Mustafa al-Kadhimi, Prime minister of Iraq, says that he has identified the perpetrators of the failed assassination attempt on his residence in the capital Baghdad.

Mustafa al-Kadhimi, Prime minister of Iraq, says that he has identified the perpetrators of the failed assassination attempt on his residence in the capital Baghdad. "We will pursue those who committed the crime. We know them well, and we will reveal their identities," said a statement by the prime minister's media office. Also read | Act of terrorism, says US after Iraq Prime Minister escapes drone attack Al-Kadhimi said the perpetrators are the same who killed Nibras Farman, an Iraqi National Intelligence Service (INIS) officer. Without giving any further details he added that the responsible parties will be brought to justice. PM Al-Kadhimi was unharmed by the armed drone assassination attempt. As a result of the incident, tensions have risen in Iraq just weeks after the disputed general elections organized by Iran-backed militias. A spokesperson for the interior ministry said three drones were used in the attack, including two that were shot down by security forces and a third that hit the residence. On Sunday, a video posted by his office showed Kadhimi chairing a meeting with top security commanders to discuss the drone attack. Also read | Iraqi Prime Minister escapes assassination attempt "The cowardly terrorist attack that targeted the home of the prime minister last night with the aim of assassinating him, is a serious targeting of the Iraqi state by criminal armed groups," his office said in a statement after the meeting. In the parliamentary elections on October 10, the Sadrist Movement, led by prominent Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, took the lead with more than 70 seats, while the al-Fatah (Conquest) Coalition garnered 17 seats compared with 47 in the 2018 elections. Parties disputing the results said the elections had been fabricated and that they would not accept the results. Watch | Drone attack targets Iraq PM, US condemns the 'act of terrorism' While the Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission is still considering the appeals and complaints submitted by the political parties, supporters of the parties rejecting the election results took to the streets of many Iraqi cities, including the capital Baghdad. On Friday, protests escalated into a clash with the security forces, which resulted in two protesters being killed and dozens of security personnel and protesters wounded. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraqi PM says have identified perpetrators of drone assassination attempt

Iraqi PM Mustafa al-Kadhimi appeared in video footage published by his office chairing a meeting with top security commanders to discuss the drone attack. He called for 'calm and restraint' in the aftermath of the attack.

Iraqi PM Kadhimi chairs meeting after escaping drone attack in Baghdad

Three rockets on Sunday hit a&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;neighbourhood near the high-security Green Zone where the US embassy is located without causing any casualties, an Iraqi security official said.

"Three Katyusha rockets fell in the Mansur district of&nbsp;Baghdad," the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told AFP.

The rockets struck near a Red Crescent hospital, a bank and the district's water management department, the source added.

The so far unclaimed attack, the first to target the Green Zone since two rockets fired on July 29, comes as authorities conduct a recount of votes cast in an October 10 parliamentary election.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It was both blast💥&amp; it was at least 4 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Katyusha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Katyusha</a> missiles shelling in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Baghdad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Baghdad</a> s neighborhood like <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D9%86%D8%B5%D9%88%D8%B1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#المنصور</a> &amp; huge blast in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A7%D9%84%DA%A9%D8%B1%D8%AE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#الکرخ</a>/<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A8%D8%BA%D8%AF%D8%A7%D8%AF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#بغداد</a> too 
 
According to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iraqis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iraqis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/resistance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#resistance</a> the rockets shelling was from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A8%DB%8C%D8%A7%D8%B9?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#البیاع</a> &amp; the main goals was to hit the green zone but it seems to missed <a href="https://t.co/NwzyUZW5su">pic.twitter.com/NwzyUZW5su</a>
— SyriaWarNews🇸🇾🇳🇴🇮🇷🇮🇶🇦🇿🇾🇪🇦🇫🇵🇰 (@ilias90sam) <a href="https://twitter.com/ilias90sam/status/1454755783237935105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Preliminary results show the Conquest Alliance, the political arm of the Hashed al-Shaabi network of pro-Iranian militias, lost ground in the election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/11-dead-in-iraq-attack-blamed-on-is-group-security-sources-424471">Also read |&nbsp;11 dead in Iraq attack blamed on IS group: Security sources</a>

Hashed leaders have vehemently contested the results and several hundred of their supporters staged a sit-in on an avenue leading to the Green Zone this month in protest.

The powerful network is fiercely opposed to the US presence in Iraq.

Its leaders have repeatedly praised the rocket and drone attacks in recent months that have targeted Iraqi military bases housing US troops, without claiming responsibility.

Some 2,500 US troops are still deployed in Iraq. They will officially limit themselves to an "advisory" role to the Iraqi security forces from 2022.

The Green Zone also houses Iraqi government buildings.

Three rockets on Sunday hit a Baghdad neighbourhood near the high-security Green Zone where the US embassy is located without causing any casualties, an Iraqi security official said.

Three rockets on Sunday hit a Baghdad neighbourhood near the high-security Green Zone where the US embassy is located without causing any casualties, an Iraqi security official said. "Three Katyusha rockets fell in the Mansur district of Baghdad," the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told AFP. The rockets struck near a Red Crescent hospital, a bank and the district's water management department, the source added. The so far unclaimed attack, the first to target the Green Zone since two rockets fired on July 29, comes as authorities conduct a recount of votes cast in an October 10 parliamentary election. It was both blast💥& it was at least 4 #Katyusha missiles shelling in #Baghdad s neighborhood like #المنصور & huge blast in #الکرخ/#بغداد too According to #Iraqis #resistance the rockets shelling was from #البیاع & the main goals was to hit the green zone but it seems to missed pic.twitter.com/NwzyUZW5su — SyriaWarNews🇸🇾🇳🇴🇮🇷🇮🇶🇦🇿🇾🇪🇦🇫🇵🇰 (@ilias90sam) October 31, 2021 × Preliminary results show the Conquest Alliance, the political arm of the Hashed al-Shaabi network of pro-Iranian militias, lost ground in the election. Also read | 11 dead in Iraq attack blamed on IS group: Security sources Hashed leaders have vehemently contested the results and several hundred of their supporters staged a sit-in on an avenue leading to the Green Zone this month in protest. The powerful network is fiercely opposed to the US presence in Iraq. Its leaders have repeatedly praised the rocket and drone attacks in recent months that have targeted Iraqi military bases housing US troops, without claiming responsibility. Some 2,500 US troops are still deployed in Iraq. They will officially limit themselves to an "advisory" role to the Iraqi security forces from 2022. The Green Zone also houses Iraqi government buildings.

Three rockets hit near Baghdad Green Zone, no casualties reported

Iraq is heading for elections marked by growing political and social fractures. On this week's The West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis tells you what this means for Baghdad's future?

The West Asia Post: Iraq elections 2021: What does it mean for Baghdad's future?

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