Iraq's top Shia cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani warned foreign actors on Friday against taking part in or inciting anti-government protests.

The warning comes after Iraqi president Barham Salih's televised announcement that Prime Minister Mahdi is ready to resign.

Ahmad al-Safi, a representative for Iraq's top cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani.

It may be recalled that Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had also emphasised on Wednesday that protesters in both Iraq and Lebanon shall pursue their demands through "legal frameworks."

Iraq has close but complicated ties with neighbouring Iran but also with Tehran's sworn foe Washington.&nbsp;

Since rallies against corruption and unemployment broke out on October 1, demonstrators and their detractors have accused each other of being backed by outside actors.

More than 250 people have been killed and 10,000 wounded in the last month during the protest

Abdul Mahdi came to power a year ago based on a tenuous partnership between populist cleric Muqtada al-Sadr and paramilitary leader Hadi al-Ameri, who have now vowed to oust the current prime minister.

Iraq's top Shia cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani warned foreign actors on Friday against taking part in or inciting anti-government protests. The warning comes after Iraqi president Barham Salih's televised announcement that Prime Minister Mahdi is ready to resign.

Iraq's top Shia cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani warned foreign actors on Friday against taking part in or inciting anti-government protests. The warning comes after Iraqi president Barham Salih's televised announcement that Prime Minister Mahdi is ready to resign. Ahmad al-Safi, a representative for Iraq's top cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani. It may be recalled that Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had also emphasised on Wednesday that protesters in both Iraq and Lebanon shall pursue their demands through "legal frameworks." Iraq has close but complicated ties with neighbouring Iran but also with Tehran's sworn foe Washington. Since rallies against corruption and unemployment broke out on October 1, demonstrators and their detractors have accused each other of being backed by outside actors. More than 250 people have been killed and 10,000 wounded in the last month during the protest Abdul Mahdi came to power a year ago based on a tenuous partnership between populist cleric Muqtada al-Sadr and paramilitary leader Hadi al-Ameri, who have now vowed to oust the current prime minister.

Iraq protests: Ali al-Sistani warns foreign actors against interfering in anti-government protests

Iraq's president vowed on Thursday to hold early elections in response to a month of deadly protests, but demonstrators said the move fell far short of their demands for a political overhaul.

In his first televised address in weeks, President Barham Saleh said the country's embattled Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi was ready to step down, but there was so far no one to take his place.

"The prime minister expressed his willingness to submit his resignation, asking the political parties to reach an agreement on an acceptable alternative," said Saleh.

He pledged to hold early elections as soon as a new voting law and oversight commission was agreed, but his speech did not appear to impress demonstrators.

"Barham's speech is just an opiate for the masses," said Haydar Kazem, 49.&nbsp;

"Abdel Mahdi's resignation isn't a solution, it's part of the solution. The problem is with the ruling parties, not with Abdel Mahdi."

Iraq's leaders have scrambled to respond to massive protests that erupted on October 1 over unemployment and corruption, ballooning into demands for "the downfall of the regime".

Saleh has held closed-door talks with top figures over Abdel Mahdi's ouster and parliament has called on the premier to come in for questioning.

Abdel Mahdi has so far resisted, saying he would only appear if the session was aired on television.

Lawmakers met Thursday for a fourth consecutive day and agreed to broadcast any session live, with Saeroon MPs chanting: "Adel must come! Adel must come!"

UN warns against 'inaction'

Abdel Mahdi, 77, came to power a year ago through a tenuous partnership between populist cleric Moqtada Sadr and paramilitary leader Hadi al-Ameri.

The kingmakers' alliance has frayed in recent months, as Sadr threw his weight behind the protests while Ameri and his allies backed the government.

A rapprochement built on Abdel Mahdi's ouster appeared close on Tuesday night, but disagreements over who could replace him seemed to have slowed down the process.

The United Nations' top representative in Iraq, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, called for a national dialogue to draw a roadmap out of the crisis.

"Today Iraq stands at a crossroads. Progress through dialogue or divisive inaction," she said.&nbsp;

"Full access to all information, facts and figures will prove key. Window dressing will only feed anger and resentment."

Since the US-led invasion that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003, Iraq's political system has been gripped by clientelism, corruption and sectarianism.

Getting a job in government, the country's biggest employer, is often secured with bribes or connections.

One in five Iraqis live below the poverty line and youth unemployment stands at 25 per cent, despite the vast oil wealth of OPEC's second-largest crude producer.

That inequality has been a rallying cry for the protests.

"Because of these politicians, there are now two classes in Iraq: those with huge salaries and those killed demanding their rights," said Sabah Kazem, a protester in the southern city of Nasiriyah.&nbsp;

'Skull-piercing' grenades

Nearby, Diwaniyah saw its largest rallies yet: students, teachers, farmers and health workers hit the streets as government offices remained closed.

In Basra, demonstrators cut off a main road leading to the Umm Qasr port -- one of the main conduits food and other imports into Iraq -- authorities said.

The rallies are unique in Iraq's recent history for their fury at the entire leadership, even normally revered clerics.

"We don't want them, so let them leave. We also don't want the clerics -- they have no business in politics," said Hoda, a 59-year-old in a headscarf and sunglasses protesting in Baghdad.

Demonstrators packed onto two bridges leading to the capital's Green Zone, where government buildings and foreign embassies are based, setting up barricades to face off against riot police trying to hold them off with tear gas.

Late on Thursday, paramilitary fighters of the Hashed al-Shaabi, which had backed the government, held their own demonstration near Tahrir.&nbsp;

At least 257 people have died and 10,000 have been wounded since protests broke out on October 1, with 100 people losing their lives in the last week, the Iraqi Human Rights Commission said.

Amnesty International said it had documented the &nbsp;"unprecedented" use of military-grade tear gas canisters that were directly shot protesters and "pierced" their heads or chest.&nbsp;

It found at least five protesters had died in as many days from the "horrific" weapon and urged an immediate halt to their use.

Iraq's president vowed on Thursday to hold early elections in response to a month of deadly protests, but demonstrators said the move fell far short of their demands for a political overhaul.

Iraq's president vowed on Thursday to hold early elections in response to a month of deadly protests, but demonstrators said the move fell far short of their demands for a political overhaul. In his first televised address in weeks, President Barham Saleh said the country's embattled Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi was ready to step down, but there was so far no one to take his place. "The prime minister expressed his willingness to submit his resignation, asking the political parties to reach an agreement on an acceptable alternative," said Saleh. He pledged to hold early elections as soon as a new voting law and oversight commission was agreed, but his speech did not appear to impress demonstrators. "Barham's speech is just an opiate for the masses," said Haydar Kazem, 49. "Abdel Mahdi's resignation isn't a solution, it's part of the solution. The problem is with the ruling parties, not with Abdel Mahdi." Iraq's leaders have scrambled to respond to massive protests that erupted on October 1 over unemployment and corruption, ballooning into demands for "the downfall of the regime". Saleh has held closed-door talks with top figures over Abdel Mahdi's ouster and parliament has called on the premier to come in for questioning. Abdel Mahdi has so far resisted, saying he would only appear if the session was aired on television. Lawmakers met Thursday for a fourth consecutive day and agreed to broadcast any session live, with Saeroon MPs chanting: "Adel must come! Adel must come!" UN warns against 'inaction' Abdel Mahdi, 77, came to power a year ago through a tenuous partnership between populist cleric Moqtada Sadr and paramilitary leader Hadi al-Ameri. The kingmakers' alliance has frayed in recent months, as Sadr threw his weight behind the protests while Ameri and his allies backed the government. A rapprochement built on Abdel Mahdi's ouster appeared close on Tuesday night, but disagreements over who could replace him seemed to have slowed down the process. The United Nations' top representative in Iraq, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, called for a national dialogue to draw a roadmap out of the crisis. "Today Iraq stands at a crossroads. Progress through dialogue or divisive inaction," she said. "Full access to all information, facts and figures will prove key. Window dressing will only feed anger and resentment." Since the US-led invasion that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003, Iraq's political system has been gripped by clientelism, corruption and sectarianism. Getting a job in government, the country's biggest employer, is often secured with bribes or connections. One in five Iraqis live below the poverty line and youth unemployment stands at 25 per cent, despite the vast oil wealth of OPEC's second-largest crude producer. That inequality has been a rallying cry for the protests. "Because of these politicians, there are now two classes in Iraq: those with huge salaries and those killed demanding their rights," said Sabah Kazem, a protester in the southern city of Nasiriyah. 'Skull-piercing' grenades Nearby, Diwaniyah saw its largest rallies yet: students, teachers, farmers and health workers hit the streets as government offices remained closed. In Basra, demonstrators cut off a main road leading to the Umm Qasr port -- one of the main conduits food and other imports into Iraq -- authorities said. The rallies are unique in Iraq's recent history for their fury at the entire leadership, even normally revered clerics. "We don't want them, so let them leave. We also don't want the clerics -- they have no business in politics," said Hoda, a 59-year-old in a headscarf and sunglasses protesting in Baghdad. Demonstrators packed onto two bridges leading to the capital's Green Zone, where government buildings and foreign embassies are based, setting up barricades to face off against riot police trying to hold them off with tear gas. Late on Thursday, paramilitary fighters of the Hashed al-Shaabi, which had backed the government, held their own demonstration near Tahrir. At least 257 people have died and 10,000 have been wounded since protests broke out on October 1, with 100 people losing their lives in the last week, the Iraqi Human Rights Commission said. Amnesty International said it had documented the "unprecedented" use of military-grade tear gas canisters that were directly shot protesters and "pierced" their heads or chest. It found at least five protesters had died in as many days from the "horrific" weapon and urged an immediate halt to their use.

Iraq president vows early polls as protesters demand more

Protests in Lebanon have evolved into more than a fight against failed and corrupt government that has long stymied development in the Middle East and North Africa.

The protests constitute a rare demand for political and social structures that emphasise national rather than ethnic or sectarian religious identities in a world in which civilisational leaders who advocate some form of racial, ethnic or religious supremacy govern the world’s major as well as key regional powers.

"One, one, one, we are one people," is a popular slogan chanted by Lebanese protesters irrespective of their denomination.

Tens of thousands of protesters emphasised last Sunday the quest for a political structure and identity that transcends sect by forming a human chain that stretched along Lebanon's Mediterranean coast.

"We are one people. 'Our' leaders have been fooling us for decades that we are not one nation, but a group of nations. The past 10 days have shown that we are truly one nation, we are Lebanese, and that’s why you only see the Lebanese flag," said Sobhi Jaroudi, a 67-year old Beirut resident who joined the chain.

"It’s a do or die situation... We are ready to face fear and face responsibility that comes with facing a sectarian structure that has been in place for 30 years," added Mohammed Shamas, a young protester, insisting he had no desire to live in a country of corrupt, sectarian politicians that have dragged the country down for their own benefit.

The protesters may not frame their demands in terms that go beyond their fragile Lebanese nation-state even if those demands, stemming from constitutionally institutionalised sectarianism, have a broader significance.

If they succeed in transforming Lebanese identity and translating that into constitutional reform, Lebanese protesters will have contributed to securing the future of protest as an effective tool of change.

That future depends on protesters'&nbsp;perceptions of a common interest that transcends sect, ethnicity and class becoming part of the fabric of society.

Lebanese protesters’ success this week in forcing Prime Minister Saad Hariri to resign also highlighted the difficulty in transcending sectarianism.

Sunni Muslim voices noted that it was a Sunni Muslim politician that had stepped down, reinforcing calls by protesters that he form a new Cabinet of technocrats only.

Nevertheless, Mr Hariri’s resignation buoyed primarily Shiite demonstrators in Iraq, whose anti-sectarian instincts, according to Fanar Haddad, an Iraq scholar at the National University of Singapore’s Middle East Institute, have been reflected in increasing issue- rather than identity-oriented demands since 2015.

Following in Lebanon’s footsteps, Iraqi prime minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi is under increasing pressure to step down.

In the most recent Iraqi protests, those instincts were evident in slogans denouncing Iranian influence in the country and the government’s perceived prioritisation of Iranian over Iraqi interests.

Protesters blamed Iran and its Iraqi proxies for the harsh response by security forces that has cost the lives of more than 200 people.

The Guardian quoted an Iraqi intelligence officer as saying that the operations room coordinating the security response to the demonstrations was run by Iranian and Iraqi militia commanders. "These militias became the tool to oppress the demonstrations," the officer said.

The anti-Iranian slogans also reflected attitudes expressed by Ayatollah Ali Husseini Sistani, one of Shiite Islam’s foremost scholars and spiritual leaders are known as the “safety valve of Iraq,” who has sought to counter sectarianism, keep a distance to Iran, and steer Iraq towards a more cohesive society.

They also amounted to what journalist Ghaith Abdul-Ahad termed "anger towards a corrupt religious oligarchy."

Ayatollah Sistani signalled his support for the protesters with the handing out of free food, water and drinks and the provision of toilet facilities to the protesters by the Imam Ali shrine in Najaf that is run by his representative.

The anger, like a rift in the power base of Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed Lebanese Shiite political movement and militia, and Amal, another Shiite group led by parliament speaker Nabih Berri, fits a trend evident not only in the broader Middle East, but also in countries like Russia where criticism of the Russian Orthodox Church is mounting because of its close association with the Kremlin.

A poll of Arab youth earlier this year showed that two-thirds of those surveyed felt that religion played too large a role in their lives, up from 50% four years ago. Seventy-nine per cent argued that religious institutions needed to be reformed while half said that religious values were holding the Arab world back.

To be sure, Iraqi denunciations of Iran were rooted in a history of Iraqi Shiite allegiance to the state evident in the fact that a majority of the Iraqi soldiers who died in the 1980s fighting an eight-year-long war against Iran were Shiites, and long-standing rivalry between Najaf, the Iraqi holy city that is home to Ayatollah Sistani, and Iran’s Qom.

It's a history, despite the vicious sectarian violence in the years following the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq, that contrasts starkly with the historical emphasis in Lebanon on sectarian identity that exploded in 1975 in a 15-year long civil war.

As a result, Lebanese protesters were more explicit in their rejection of a sectarian-based political system. Even supporters of Hezbollah transcended sectarian identities by ignoring a call by the group’s leader, Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah for an end to the protests.

&nbsp;"I'm financed by the embassy of Hela Hela Hela Ho-stan, who's financing you?" said a demonstrator's placard on Beirut's Riad Solh Square, using a chant popular with the protesters.

Added protester Alaa, a Nasrallah supporter: "His priorities here are different from our priorities, we want to change the system, get ourselves a better life; in short we want a new life, while Hezbollah’s priorities are keeping the system and making sure they’re on good terms with their allies. For the first time ever, we are having a clear diversion in vision."

Protests in Lebanon have evolved into more than a fight against failed and corrupt government that has long stymied development in the Middle East and North Africa.

Protests in Lebanon have evolved into more than a fight against failed and corrupt government that has long stymied development in the Middle East and North Africa. The protests constitute a rare demand for political and social structures that emphasise national rather than ethnic or sectarian religious identities in a world in which civilisational leaders who advocate some form of racial, ethnic or religious supremacy govern the world’s major as well as key regional powers. "One, one, one, we are one people," is a popular slogan chanted by Lebanese protesters irrespective of their denomination. Tens of thousands of protesters emphasised last Sunday the quest for a political structure and identity that transcends sect by forming a human chain that stretched along Lebanon's Mediterranean coast. "We are one people. 'Our' leaders have been fooling us for decades that we are not one nation, but a group of nations. The past 10 days have shown that we are truly one nation, we are Lebanese, and that’s why you only see the Lebanese flag," said Sobhi Jaroudi, a 67-year old Beirut resident who joined the chain. "It’s a do or die situation... We are ready to face fear and face responsibility that comes with facing a sectarian structure that has been in place for 30 years," added Mohammed Shamas, a young protester, insisting he had no desire to live in a country of corrupt, sectarian politicians that have dragged the country down for their own benefit. The protesters may not frame their demands in terms that go beyond their fragile Lebanese nation-state even if those demands, stemming from constitutionally institutionalised sectarianism, have a broader significance. If they succeed in transforming Lebanese identity and translating that into constitutional reform, Lebanese protesters will have contributed to securing the future of protest as an effective tool of change. That future depends on protesters' perceptions of a common interest that transcends sect, ethnicity and class becoming part of the fabric of society. Lebanese protesters’ success this week in forcing Prime Minister Saad Hariri to resign also highlighted the difficulty in transcending sectarianism. Sunni Muslim voices noted that it was a Sunni Muslim politician that had stepped down, reinforcing calls by protesters that he form a new Cabinet of technocrats only. Nevertheless, Mr Hariri’s resignation buoyed primarily Shiite demonstrators in Iraq, whose anti-sectarian instincts, according to Fanar Haddad, an Iraq scholar at the National University of Singapore’s Middle East Institute, have been reflected in increasing issue- rather than identity-oriented demands since 2015. Following in Lebanon’s footsteps, Iraqi prime minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi is under increasing pressure to step down. In the most recent Iraqi protests, those instincts were evident in slogans denouncing Iranian influence in the country and the government’s perceived prioritisation of Iranian over Iraqi interests. Protesters blamed Iran and its Iraqi proxies for the harsh response by security forces that has cost the lives of more than 200 people. The Guardian quoted an Iraqi intelligence officer as saying that the operations room coordinating the security response to the demonstrations was run by Iranian and Iraqi militia commanders. "These militias became the tool to oppress the demonstrations," the officer said. The anti-Iranian slogans also reflected attitudes expressed by Ayatollah Ali Husseini Sistani, one of Shiite Islam’s foremost scholars and spiritual leaders are known as the “safety valve of Iraq,” who has sought to counter sectarianism, keep a distance to Iran, and steer Iraq towards a more cohesive society. They also amounted to what journalist Ghaith Abdul-Ahad termed "anger towards a corrupt religious oligarchy." Ayatollah Sistani signalled his support for the protesters with the handing out of free food, water and drinks and the provision of toilet facilities to the protesters by the Imam Ali shrine in Najaf that is run by his representative. The anger, like a rift in the power base of Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed Lebanese Shiite political movement and militia, and Amal, another Shiite group led by parliament speaker Nabih Berri, fits a trend evident not only in the broader Middle East, but also in countries like Russia where criticism of the Russian Orthodox Church is mounting because of its close association with the Kremlin. A poll of Arab youth earlier this year showed that two-thirds of those surveyed felt that religion played too large a role in their lives, up from 50% four years ago. Seventy-nine per cent argued that religious institutions needed to be reformed while half said that religious values were holding the Arab world back. To be sure, Iraqi denunciations of Iran were rooted in a history of Iraqi Shiite allegiance to the state evident in the fact that a majority of the Iraqi soldiers who died in the 1980s fighting an eight-year-long war against Iran were Shiites, and long-standing rivalry between Najaf, the Iraqi holy city that is home to Ayatollah Sistani, and Iran’s Qom. It's a history, despite the vicious sectarian violence in the years following the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq, that contrasts starkly with the historical emphasis in Lebanon on sectarian identity that exploded in 1975 in a 15-year long civil war. As a result, Lebanese protesters were more explicit in their rejection of a sectarian-based political system. Even supporters of Hezbollah transcended sectarian identities by ignoring a call by the group’s leader, Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah for an end to the protests. "I'm financed by the embassy of Hela Hela Hela Ho-stan, who's financing you?" said a demonstrator's placard on Beirut's Riad Solh Square, using a chant popular with the protesters. Added protester Alaa, a Nasrallah supporter: "His priorities here are different from our priorities, we want to change the system, get ourselves a better life; in short we want a new life, while Hezbollah’s priorities are keeping the system and making sure they’re on good terms with their allies. For the first time ever, we are having a clear diversion in vision."

Lebanese and Iraqi protesters transcend sectarianism

6 Iraqis were killed and dozens wounded on Saturday, police and hospital sources said, as demonstrators and security forces clashed in the second day of protests against Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi's government.

Iraq: 6 killed, dozens wounded in anti-government protests

In Iraq, at least 40 protesters have been killed in the Anti-Govt protests. Watch this video to know more.

Iraq: At least 40 have been killed in the Anti-Govt protests

Iraqi security forces sought to clamp down on protests in Baghdad and across the south on Saturday, a day after dozens died in a bloody resumption of anti-government rallies.

Iraqi security forces sought to clamp down on protests in Baghdad and across the south on Saturday, a day after dozens died in a bloody resumption of anti-government rallies. A parliamentary session scheduled for Saturday afternoon to discuss the renewed protests was cancelled after it failed to reach a quorum. Since anti-government rallies first erupted on October 1, nearly 200 people have died and thousands were wounded in Baghdad and across the country's Shiite-majority south in violence condemned worldwide. Almost a quarter of them, 42, succumbed on Friday alone from live rounds, tear gas canisters or while torching government buildings or offices belonging to powerful Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary factions in several southern cities. Tensions remained high across several cities there on Saturday, with security forces cutting off roads and imposing strict curfews. The storming of provincial headquarters, parliamentarians' workspaces or Hashed offices marks a new phase in the southern rallies but there have been no such incidents so far in the capital. In Baghdad, a few hundred protesters dug in around the emblematic Tahrir (Liberation) Square on Saturday morning despite efforts by riot police to clear them with tear gas. "It's enough -- theft, looting, gangs, mafias, deep state, whatever. Get out! Let us see a (functioning) state," said one protester, referring to perceived cronyism and corruption in the country. "We don't want anything, just let us live," he added as puffs of smoke from tear gas rose behind him. Oil-rich Iraq is OPEC's second-highest producer -- but one in five people live below the poverty line and youth unemployment sits at 25 percent, according to the World Bank. The staggering rates of joblessness and allegations of corruption sparked the widespread protests on October 1 and the government has struggled to quell public anger by proposing reforms. 'They tricked us' Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi has suggested a laundry list of measures, including hiring drives, increased pensions and a cabinet reshuffle. New education and health ministers were approved by parliament in a session earlier this month, the only time it was able to reach a quorum since protests began. But protesters seemed unimpressed. "They told young people: 'go home, we'll give you pensions and come up with a solution'. They tricked us," said one of the rare woman protesters on Saturday, her young son at her side. About 60 percent of Iraq's 40-million-strong population is under the age of 25. Protesters have directed some of their anger at the country's top Shiite religious authority, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, who is deeply revered among most Iraqis. Others have been waiting for signal from influential populist cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, who has thrown his weight behind protests. On Friday, Sistani urged protesters and security forces to show "restraint", warning of "chaos" if violence resumed. "Sadr, Sistani -- this is a shame," a protester in Tahrir said on Saturday. "We were hit! It's enough," he said, waving a tear gas canister fired earlier by security forces. Riot police had been trying to keep protesters around Tahrir from reaching the high-security Green Zone across the river, which hosts government offices including parliament. Speaker Mohammed al-Halbusi said he had visited Tahrir overnight, but many demonstrators have shunned the participation of mainstream politicians whom they see as trying to co-opt their movement.

Iraq forces clamp down on protests after bloodshed

Iraqi security forces fired tear gas to force <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-40-killed-as-fresh-protests-engulf-iraq-258212">protesters away from Baghdad</a>'s Green Zone Saturday ahead of a planned parliament session, AFP correspondents said, a day after 42 demonstrators were killed.

In the capital and across the south, protesters died Friday from live rounds, wounds sustained from tear gas canisters and in fires set to government and paramilitary offices.

On Saturday morning, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-protesters-march-towards-baghdads-green-zone-one-killed-258183">demonstrators</a> tried to reach Baghdad's high-security Green Zone, where parliament is scheduled to "discuss protesters' demands, cabinet's decisions and the implementation of reforms" later in the day, according to its agenda.

Security forces fired tear gas to force protesters away from Tahrir (Liberation) Square and the adjacent Al-Jumhuriya bridge, which leads to the Green Zone, home to government offices and foreign embassies.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iraq-at-least-40-have-been-killed-in-the-anti-govt-protests-258243/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

A first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/iraqs-wave-of-protests-its-roots-and-how-to-begin-fixing-it-258108">wave of protests</a> erupted on October 1, demanding an end to corruption and unemployment before escalating to calls for an overhaul of the political system.&nbsp;

More than 150 people were killed, according to a government probe, most of them protesters in Baghdad who died of gunshot wounds to the head or chest.&nbsp;

In response, authorities have pledged a laundry list of measures including hiring drives, increased pensions and a cabinet reshuffle.

New education and health ministers were approved by parliament earlier this month, the only time it was able to reach quorum since protests began.

But protesters seemed unimpressed and called for a resumption of nationwide demonstrations on October 25.&nbsp;

Parliament speaker Mohammed al-Halbusi said he had visited protesters overnight in Tahrir, but many demonstrators have shunned the participation of mainstream politicians whom they see as trying to co-opt their movement.&nbsp;

Iraqi security forces fired tear gas to force protesters away from Baghdad's Green Zone Saturday ahead of a planned parliament session, AFP correspondents said, a day after 42 demonstrators were killed.

Iraqi security forces fired tear gas to force protesters away from Baghdad's Green Zone Saturday ahead of a planned parliament session, AFP correspondents said, a day after 42 demonstrators were killed. In the capital and across the south, protesters died Friday from live rounds, wounds sustained from tear gas canisters and in fires set to government and paramilitary offices. On Saturday morning, demonstrators tried to reach Baghdad's high-security Green Zone, where parliament is scheduled to "discuss protesters' demands, cabinet's decisions and the implementation of reforms" later in the day, according to its agenda. Security forces fired tear gas to force protesters away from Tahrir (Liberation) Square and the adjacent Al-Jumhuriya bridge, which leads to the Green Zone, home to government offices and foreign embassies. × A first wave of protests erupted on October 1, demanding an end to corruption and unemployment before escalating to calls for an overhaul of the political system. More than 150 people were killed, according to a government probe, most of them protesters in Baghdad who died of gunshot wounds to the head or chest. In response, authorities have pledged a laundry list of measures including hiring drives, increased pensions and a cabinet reshuffle. New education and health ministers were approved by parliament earlier this month, the only time it was able to reach quorum since protests began. But protesters seemed unimpressed and called for a resumption of nationwide demonstrations on October 25. Parliament speaker Mohammed al-Halbusi said he had visited protesters overnight in Tahrir, but many demonstrators have shunned the participation of mainstream politicians whom they see as trying to co-opt their movement.

Iraq: Security forces fire tear gas as protests linger in Baghdad ahead of parliament session

Iraq braces for another anti-government rally. Watch this video to know more.

Iraq braces for another anti-government rally

A protester struck in the face by a tear gas canister died in Baghdad on Friday as Iraqi security forces sought to repel demonstrators protesting at corruption and economic hardship, police and medical sources said.

A protester struck in the face by a tear gas canister died in Baghdad on Friday as Iraqi security forces sought to repel demonstrators protesting at corruption and economic hardship, police and medical sources said. The authorities have struggled to address protesters' grievances since sometimes violent unrest erupted in Baghdad on October 1, spreading to southern cities. Demonstrators blame corrupt officials and political elites for failing to improve their lives. At least one protester has died and more than 200 were wounded in the latest disturbances. The unrest has posed the biggest challenge to Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi since he took office just one year ago. Despite promising reforms and a broad cabinet reshuffle, the premier has so far struggled to address protesters' roiling discontent. Despite the OPEC member country's vast oil wealth, many Iraqis live in poverty, have limited access to clean water, electricity, basic healthcare or decent education as the country tries to recover from years of conflict and economic hardship. In an address late on Thursday night, Abdul Mahdi warned that any collapse of government would drag Iraq into further turmoil. How the government and security forces will handle protests planned for Friday is a litmus test for the stability of the country with political leaders already on edge. Politicians and parties planned to have a stronger presence on Friday, but their interference continued to be roundly rejected by protesters. "Our demands are the resignation of the entire government, the dissolution of all political parties, a good life. We came here in a peaceful protest for this," said Mahmoud al-Shummari, 51, one of thousands who gathered in Baghdad's Tahrir Square. Hundreds of people, some of whom had camped overnight in the square, made attempts throughout the morning to march towards the city's fortified Green Zone, which houses government buildings and foreign embassies, when they were stopped by security forces. Top cleric urges calm The country's top cleric, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, who in recent weeks has criticised the government's handling of the protests, urged calm on all sides during his sermon on Friday. Protesters in Baghdad however were nervous about a repeat of violent confrontations which engulfed the capital and southern provinces just two weeks ago, leaving 149 protesters dead and more than 6,000 wounded. "We got to the Green Zone early this morning," said 28-year-old protester Hussein al-Ojaili. "But we were worried about going past the Iranian embassy because someone said they have snipers." Ojaili said riot forces used stun grenades and fired tear gas and rubber bullets directly at the crowd marching towards the green zone. One protester was killed after he was struck in the face with a tear gas canister, police and medical sources told Reuters. The violence further enflamed protesters, who blame a political elite they view as endemically corrupt for failing to improve their lives. "All we want are four things: jobs; water, electricity, and safety. That's all we want," said 16-year-old Ali Mohammed who had covered his face with a tee-shirt to avoid inhaling tear gas. Mohammed had covered his face with a tee-shirt to avoid inhaling tear gas, as scenes of chaos overwhelmed Tahrir Square. Sirens wailed and tear gas canisters landed in the middle of groups of young protesters who wore Iraqi flags and chanted "with life and blood we defend you Iraq." Tuk-tuks carried injured protesters to nearby hospitals for treatment. Medical sources told Reuters at least 227 people had been treated for injuries, most related to tear gas exposure. A damning report released this week by a government committee set up by Abdul Mahdi concluded the 149 civilians were killed because security forces used excessive force and live fire to quell the protests.

Iraq protesters march towards Baghdad's Green Zone, one killed

By Bamo Nouri

Iraq’s recent wave of protests against poverty, a lack of basic services, unemployment, and the interference of Iran in the country’s domestic affairs showed a country at the end of its tether. Official figures put the number killed in the violent crackdown of protesters at 157.

Since 2011, protests and popular movements that challenged elite dominance or questioned the government have been violently repressed. The presence of Iran has increased as the Shiite-dominated government in Iraq has become dependent on the Iranian Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) to maintain order in Iraq. Indeed, there have been reports that snipers were deployed by Iranian-backed militias in the latest round of protests in October.

The problems for Iraq are deep-rooted and institutional, and if not addressed may yet escalate into a full scale revolution. What’s needed is reform of the country’s 2005 constitution, which was written during a period of political instability after a war and occupation ridden by conflict. The only way for Iraq to have a chance at prosperity and peace is by addressing its flawed foundations which were heavily influenced by the occupiers.

Iraq’s 2005 constitution, which was influenced by the US, failed to create a unified, representative government. Ambiguities within the document have been abused by those in power and it has exacerbated sectarian divisions within Iraq’s politics. The constitution created a system in which public sector and government roles are allocated based on sect and ethnicity.

Unrepresentative elites 
 
Iraq has become a nation that is for the few and not the many, as unrepresentative Iraqi political elites bid to share out its resources. Millions of Iraqis are left unrepresented and without prospects.

While the majority of citizens are discontented and struggling, Iraq’s elites remain fortified and continue to govern through a system known as “wasta”, which involves serving those you favour and hold close, such as friends and family. Divides along ethnic and sectarian lines remain a key theme when identifying the causes of disagreement between competing sects who unite to form political blocs in Iraq’s government.

The lengthy government formation process that takes place after elections is dependent on the division of key state institutions based on ethnic and sectarian identities. To achieve this, political parties form blocs with and against each other to achieve their goals, with the biggest becoming the governing bloc. Although Iraqi elites are divided based on ethnicity, sect and religion, this race for power – and with it the ability to distribute and share the country’s resources – creates a unity between elites.

For example, in three separate parliamentary elections since 2003, the winning candidate has not become prime minister. In the 2014 elections, Nouri al-Maliki, as the head of the State of Law coalition, won the largest number of seats in parliament, yet due to disagreements over government formation and the fight against Islamic State, he was replaced by Haider al-Abadi. In the 2018 elections, Muqtada al-Sadr’s Saairun coalition won a majority, but it was eventually Adil Abdul-Mahdi, an independent, who was chosen as prime minister.

Ministerial fiefdoms where political parties are given ministries in exchange for support to form governing blocs have created a dysfunctional government. It means there is no clear governmental strategy, which in turn severely impedes development.

The mechanics of this power-sharing system are illustrated by coalitions of oligarchs who use public institutions to distribute favours to clients. Political parties control government procurement and reconstruction contracts, who either auction them off, or set up shell companies to award contracts to themselves. These contracts are then sub-contracted, or simply never fulfilled, with funds ending up being drained in the process, ultimately benefiting a narrow Iraqi elite. Iraq was ranked 168 out of 180 countries in Transparency International’s 2018 corruption perception index.

Democracy in theory only

Freedom of speech is non-existent and those who speak out against the government are targeted and often killed, as are protesters. On the whole, democracy in Iraq only exists in theory.

In order for Iraq to ever be able to meet the growing demands of its people and the challenges of prospering on the global stage, immediate political reform is needed. The reform process must directly address the rushed and divisive constitution. This needs to be followed by the democratisation of Iraq’s institutions and the re-creation of Iraq’s national identity so the country can escape the worst of its sectarianism and become more unified as a nation.

Without all of these issues addressed with equal importance, the cycle of adversity will continue as Iraq will remain a reactive as opposed to the proactive nation.

(Bamo Nouri is Lecturer, City, University of London)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/iraqs-discontent-its-roots-and-how-to-begin-fixing-it-124959">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

By Bamo Nouri Iraq’s recent wave of protests against poverty, a lack of basic services, unemployment, and the interference of Iran in the country’s domestic affairs showed a country at the end of its tether.

By Bamo Nouri Iraq’s recent wave of protests against poverty, a lack of basic services, unemployment, and the interference of Iran in the country’s domestic affairs showed a country at the end of its tether. Official figures put the number killed in the violent crackdown of protesters at 157. Since 2011, protests and popular movements that challenged elite dominance or questioned the government have been violently repressed. The presence of Iran has increased as the Shiite-dominated government in Iraq has become dependent on the Iranian Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) to maintain order in Iraq. Indeed, there have been reports that snipers were deployed by Iranian-backed militias in the latest round of protests in October. The problems for Iraq are deep-rooted and institutional, and if not addressed may yet escalate into a full scale revolution. What’s needed is reform of the country’s 2005 constitution, which was written during a period of political instability after a war and occupation ridden by conflict. The only way for Iraq to have a chance at prosperity and peace is by addressing its flawed foundations which were heavily influenced by the occupiers. Iraq’s 2005 constitution, which was influenced by the US, failed to create a unified, representative government. Ambiguities within the document have been abused by those in power and it has exacerbated sectarian divisions within Iraq’s politics. The constitution created a system in which public sector and government roles are allocated based on sect and ethnicity. Unrepresentative elites Iraq has become a nation that is for the few and not the many, as unrepresentative Iraqi political elites bid to share out its resources. Millions of Iraqis are left unrepresented and without prospects. While the majority of citizens are discontented and struggling, Iraq’s elites remain fortified and continue to govern through a system known as “wasta”, which involves serving those you favour and hold close, such as friends and family. Divides along ethnic and sectarian lines remain a key theme when identifying the causes of disagreement between competing sects who unite to form political blocs in Iraq’s government. The lengthy government formation process that takes place after elections is dependent on the division of key state institutions based on ethnic and sectarian identities. To achieve this, political parties form blocs with and against each other to achieve their goals, with the biggest becoming the governing bloc. Although Iraqi elites are divided based on ethnicity, sect and religion, this race for power – and with it the ability to distribute and share the country’s resources – creates a unity between elites. For example, in three separate parliamentary elections since 2003, the winning candidate has not become prime minister. In the 2014 elections, Nouri al-Maliki, as the head of the State of Law coalition, won the largest number of seats in parliament, yet due to disagreements over government formation and the fight against Islamic State, he was replaced by Haider al-Abadi. In the 2018 elections, Muqtada al-Sadr’s Saairun coalition won a majority, but it was eventually Adil Abdul-Mahdi, an independent, who was chosen as prime minister. Ministerial fiefdoms where political parties are given ministries in exchange for support to form governing blocs have created a dysfunctional government. It means there is no clear governmental strategy, which in turn severely impedes development. The mechanics of this power-sharing system are illustrated by coalitions of oligarchs who use public institutions to distribute favours to clients. Political parties control government procurement and reconstruction contracts, who either auction them off, or set up shell companies to award contracts to themselves. These contracts are then sub-contracted, or simply never fulfilled, with funds ending up being drained in the process, ultimately benefiting a narrow Iraqi elite. Iraq was ranked 168 out of 180 countries in Transparency International’s 2018 corruption perception index. Democracy in theory only Freedom of speech is non-existent and those who speak out against the government are targeted and often killed, as are protesters. On the whole, democracy in Iraq only exists in theory. In order for Iraq to ever be able to meet the growing demands of its people and the challenges of prospering on the global stage, immediate political reform is needed. The reform process must directly address the rushed and divisive constitution. This needs to be followed by the democratisation of Iraq’s institutions and the re-creation of Iraq’s national identity so the country can escape the worst of its sectarianism and become more unified as a nation. Without all of these issues addressed with equal importance, the cycle of adversity will continue as Iraq will remain a reactive as opposed to the proactive nation. (Bamo Nouri is Lecturer, City, University of London) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Iraq’s wave of protests – its roots and how to begin fixing it

Iraqi security forces used tear gas and stun grenades to repel demonstrators on Friday morning who had marched towards government buildings in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-government-protests-resume-in-iraq-after-bloodshed-258031">protest against corruption and economic hardship</a>.

The incident marked a renewal of the anti-government protests after security forces killed about 150 people in confronting a round of demonstrations at the start of the month.

About 1,000 people, some of whom had camped overnight in Baghdad's Tahrir Square, were marching towards the city's fortified Green Zone, which houses government buildings and foreign embassies when they were stopped by security forces.

Medical sources told Reuters about 20 people had been treated in hospital for tear gas exposure.

Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said in an address on Thursday that people would be free to exercise their right to demonstrate but that violence would not be tolerated.

Abdul Mahdi has struggled to address discontent since sometimes <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/157-dead-in-anti-government-protests-in-iraq-257534">violent unrest</a> erupted in Baghdad on October&nbsp;1 and spread to southern cities. Demonstrators blame corrupt officials and political elites for failing to improve their lives.

Despite the OPEC member's vast oil wealth, many Iraqis live in poverty, have limited access to clean water, electricity, basic healthcare or decent education as the country tries to recover from years of conflict and economic hardship.

Demonstrations continued for several days at the beginning of the month despite a violent crackdown by security forces.

A government committee set up by Abdul Mahdi said on Monday that 149 civilians were killed because security forces used excessive force and live fire to quell the protests. It recommended the dismissal and trial of dozens of senior security commanders.

Protesters, who have called on the ruling class to step down, gathered again in several cities on Friday morning after a two-week hiatus.

Abdul Mahdi said in Thursday's address that a government collapse would drag Iraq into further turmoil.

"The resignation of the government today without a constitutional alternative will lead the country into chaos," he said.

He also reiterated reforms announced in the aftermath of the protests, including a cabinet reshuffle, opportunities for unemployed youth, a new court to try corrupt officials, as well as the halving of government salaries, including for top officials.

Iraqi security forces used tear gas and stun grenades to repel demonstrators on Friday morning who had marched towards government buildings in protest against corruption and economic hardship.

Iraqi security forces used tear gas and stun grenades to repel demonstrators on Friday morning who had marched towards government buildings in protest against corruption and economic hardship. The incident marked a renewal of the anti-government protests after security forces killed about 150 people in confronting a round of demonstrations at the start of the month. About 1,000 people, some of whom had camped overnight in Baghdad's Tahrir Square, were marching towards the city's fortified Green Zone, which houses government buildings and foreign embassies when they were stopped by security forces. Medical sources told Reuters about 20 people had been treated in hospital for tear gas exposure. Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said in an address on Thursday that people would be free to exercise their right to demonstrate but that violence would not be tolerated. Abdul Mahdi has struggled to address discontent since sometimes violent unrest erupted in Baghdad on October 1 and spread to southern cities. Demonstrators blame corrupt officials and political elites for failing to improve their lives. Despite the OPEC member's vast oil wealth, many Iraqis live in poverty, have limited access to clean water, electricity, basic healthcare or decent education as the country tries to recover from years of conflict and economic hardship. Demonstrations continued for several days at the beginning of the month despite a violent crackdown by security forces. A government committee set up by Abdul Mahdi said on Monday that 149 civilians were killed because security forces used excessive force and live fire to quell the protests. It recommended the dismissal and trial of dozens of senior security commanders. Protesters, who have called on the ruling class to step down, gathered again in several cities on Friday morning after a two-week hiatus. Abdul Mahdi said in Thursday's address that a government collapse would drag Iraq into further turmoil. "The resignation of the government today without a constitutional alternative will lead the country into chaos," he said. He also reiterated reforms announced in the aftermath of the protests, including a cabinet reshuffle, opportunities for unemployed youth, a new court to try corrupt officials, as well as the halving of government salaries, including for top officials.

Protesters march towards Baghdad's fortified Green Zone as anti-government protests resume

Iran-backed&nbsp;militias&nbsp;deployed&nbsp;snipers&nbsp;on Baghdad rooftops during Iraq’s deadliest anti-government&nbsp;protests&nbsp;in years, two&nbsp;Iraqi security officials told Reuters.

The deployment of militia fighters, which has not been previously reported, underscores the chaotic nature of&nbsp;Iraqi politics amid mass&nbsp;protests&nbsp;that led to more than <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/anti-govt-protests-in-iraq-death-toll-rises-to-100-254028">100 deaths </a>and 6,000 injuries during the week starting October&nbsp;1. Such&nbsp;militias&nbsp;have become a fixture here with&nbsp;Iran's rising influence.

They sometimes operate in conjunction with&nbsp;Iraqi security forces but they retain their own command structures.

The&nbsp;Iraqi security&nbsp;sources&nbsp;told Reuters that the leaders of&nbsp;Iran-aligned&nbsp;militias&nbsp;decided on their own to help put down the mass&nbsp;protests&nbsp;against the government of&nbsp;Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi, whose one-year-old administration is&nbsp;backed&nbsp;by powerful&nbsp;Iran-backed&nbsp;armed groups and political factions.

“We have confirmed evidence that the&nbsp;snipers&nbsp;were elements of&nbsp;militias&nbsp;reporting directly to their commander instead of the chief commander of the armed forces,” said one of the&nbsp;Iraqi security&nbsp;sources. “They belong to a group that is very close to the&nbsp;Iranians.”

A second&nbsp;Iraqi security source, who attended daily government security briefings, said militiamen clad in black shot protesters on the third day of unrest when the death toll soared to more than 50 from about half a dozen. The fighters were directed by Abu Zainab al-Lami, head of security for the Hashid, a grouping of mostly Shi’ite Muslim paramilitaries&nbsp;backed&nbsp;by&nbsp;Iran, the second source said. The Hashid leader was tasked with quashing the&nbsp;protests&nbsp;by a group of other senior militia commanders, the source said. The&nbsp;sources&nbsp;did not say how many&nbsp;snipers&nbsp;were&nbsp;deployed&nbsp;by militia groups.

A spokesman for the Hashid, Ahmed al-Assadi, denied the groups took part in the crackdown. “No members were present in the protest areas. None of the elements of the Hashid took part in confronting protesters,” Al-Assadi said in a statement to Reuters.

Iraqi Interior Ministry spokesman Saad Maal said state security forces did not fire directly at protesters and blamed unnamed “vicious” shooters for the mass deaths and injuries. The government has opened an investigation to determine who shot the protesters and who ordered it, Maal said in a news conference on October&nbsp;6.

The assertion that security forces did not participate in the violence seemed to contradict an earlier statement on October&nbsp;14 from the&nbsp;Iraqi government, which admitted state security forces had used excessive force and promised to hold individuals accountable for violence against civilians.

An official with the prime minister’s office said in a statement to Reuters Wednesday that it would be “premature to lay the blame on any parties, whether from Hashid or other security forces before we end the investigation. Let’s wait and see who gave the order ‘shoot to kill.’”

Iran’s role in responding to the demonstrations was another reminder of Tehran’s reach in&nbsp;Iraq, where a sizable number of former militia commanders are now members of parliament and support the&nbsp;Iranian agenda. Stability of the&nbsp;Iraqi government is in the best interests of&nbsp;Iran, which has been steadily amassing influence in&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;since 2003 when the US-led invasion toppled the Islamic Republic’s arch-enemy, Saddam Hussein.&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;is&nbsp;Iraq’s biggest trading partner.

Iran's delegation to the United Nations did not immediately respond Wednesday afternoon to questions from Reuters about its support of&nbsp;militias&nbsp;and their involvement in the violence against protesters. Leaders of&nbsp;militias&nbsp;in&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;have denied getting training and weapons from&nbsp;Iran.

As&nbsp;protests&nbsp;entered their third day, on October&nbsp;3,&nbsp;snipers&nbsp;appeared on Baghdad rooftops. A Reuters cameraman who was covering the unrest near Baghdad’s Tahrir Square that afternoon said he saw a sniper, wearing a balaclava and dressed in black as he stood on top of an under-construction building that overlooked the demonstrations.

Protesters fled as the sniper opened fire.&nbsp;One protester who was shot in the head was carried away in a large crowd. Another who was shot in the head appeared to have died and was rushed off in a truck. When his phone rang, a friend recognized that the man’s brother was calling.

“Don’t tell him he died,” the friend said.

The&nbsp;protests&nbsp;started October&nbsp;1 amid public rage over chronic shortages of jobs, electricity and clean water.&nbsp;Iraqis blame politicians and officials for systemic corruption that has prevented&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;from recovering after years of sectarian violence and devastating war to defeat Islamic State.

Any vacuum of power could prove challenging for the region, given that Baghdad is an ally of both the United States and&nbsp;Iran, who are locked in their own political standoff. Thousands of US&nbsp;troops are stationed in the country in positions not far from those of&nbsp;Iran-backed&nbsp;Shi’ite&nbsp;militias.

The second security source told Reuters that the&nbsp;snipers&nbsp;were using radio communications equipment that was provided by&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and is difficult to intercept, giving the groups an essentially private network.

A group of senior commanders from&nbsp;Iran’s Revolutionary Guards travelled to&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;on the second day of the&nbsp;protests&nbsp;and met with&nbsp;Iraqi intelligence and security officials, according to a diplomat in the region familiar with&nbsp;Iran’s decision-making process. After the meeting, senior Revolutionary Guard officers with experience in curbing civil unrest continued to advise the&nbsp;Iraqi government, the diplomat said, although no&nbsp;Iranian soldiers were&nbsp;deployed.

A senior commander of one of the&nbsp;Iran-backed&nbsp;militias&nbsp;- who said his group was not involved in efforts to stop the&nbsp;protests&nbsp;or the resulting violence - said Tehran consulted closely with forces trying to quell the demonstrations.

“After two days, they jumped in and supplied the government and&nbsp;militias&nbsp;with intelligence,” the militia leader told Reuters. “Iranian advisors insisted on having a role and warned us that the ongoing&nbsp;protests, if not reversed, will undermine the government of Abdul Mahdi.”

Iran-backed militias deployed snipers on Baghdad rooftops during Iraq’s deadliest anti-government protests in years, two Iraqi security officials told Reuters. The deployment of militia fighters, which has not been previously reported, underscores the chaotic nature of Iraqi politics amid mass protests that led to more than 100 deaths and 6,000 injuries during the week starting October 1.

Iran-backed militias deployed snipers on Baghdad rooftops during Iraq’s deadliest anti-government protests in years, two Iraqi security officials told Reuters. The deployment of militia fighters, which has not been previously reported, underscores the chaotic nature of Iraqi politics amid mass protests that led to more than 100 deaths and 6,000 injuries during the week starting October 1. Such militias have become a fixture here with Iran's rising influence. They sometimes operate in conjunction with Iraqi security forces but they retain their own command structures. The Iraqi security sources told Reuters that the leaders of Iran-aligned militias decided on their own to help put down the mass protests against the government of Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi, whose one-year-old administration is backed by powerful Iran-backed armed groups and political factions. “We have confirmed evidence that the snipers were elements of militias reporting directly to their commander instead of the chief commander of the armed forces,” said one of the Iraqi security sources. “They belong to a group that is very close to the Iranians.” A second Iraqi security source, who attended daily government security briefings, said militiamen clad in black shot protesters on the third day of unrest when the death toll soared to more than 50 from about half a dozen. The fighters were directed by Abu Zainab al-Lami, head of security for the Hashid, a grouping of mostly Shi’ite Muslim paramilitaries backed by Iran, the second source said. The Hashid leader was tasked with quashing the protests by a group of other senior militia commanders, the source said. The sources did not say how many snipers were deployed by militia groups. A spokesman for the Hashid, Ahmed al-Assadi, denied the groups took part in the crackdown. “No members were present in the protest areas. None of the elements of the Hashid took part in confronting protesters,” Al-Assadi said in a statement to Reuters. Iraqi Interior Ministry spokesman Saad Maal said state security forces did not fire directly at protesters and blamed unnamed “vicious” shooters for the mass deaths and injuries. The government has opened an investigation to determine who shot the protesters and who ordered it, Maal said in a news conference on October 6. The assertion that security forces did not participate in the violence seemed to contradict an earlier statement on October 14 from the Iraqi government, which admitted state security forces had used excessive force and promised to hold individuals accountable for violence against civilians. An official with the prime minister’s office said in a statement to Reuters Wednesday that it would be “premature to lay the blame on any parties, whether from Hashid or other security forces before we end the investigation. Let’s wait and see who gave the order ‘shoot to kill.’” Iran’s role in responding to the demonstrations was another reminder of Tehran’s reach in Iraq, where a sizable number of former militia commanders are now members of parliament and support the Iranian agenda. Stability of the Iraqi government is in the best interests of Iran, which has been steadily amassing influence in Iraq since 2003 when the US-led invasion toppled the Islamic Republic’s arch-enemy, Saddam Hussein. Iran is Iraq’s biggest trading partner. Iran's delegation to the United Nations did not immediately respond Wednesday afternoon to questions from Reuters about its support of militias and their involvement in the violence against protesters. Leaders of militias in Iraq have denied getting training and weapons from Iran. As protests entered their third day, on October 3, snipers appeared on Baghdad rooftops. A Reuters cameraman who was covering the unrest near Baghdad’s Tahrir Square that afternoon said he saw a sniper, wearing a balaclava and dressed in black as he stood on top of an under-construction building that overlooked the demonstrations. Protesters fled as the sniper opened fire. One protester who was shot in the head was carried away in a large crowd. Another who was shot in the head appeared to have died and was rushed off in a truck. When his phone rang, a friend recognized that the man’s brother was calling. “Don’t tell him he died,” the friend said. The protests started October 1 amid public rage over chronic shortages of jobs, electricity and clean water. Iraqis blame politicians and officials for systemic corruption that has prevented Iraq from recovering after years of sectarian violence and devastating war to defeat Islamic State. Any vacuum of power could prove challenging for the region, given that Baghdad is an ally of both the United States and Iran, who are locked in their own political standoff. Thousands of US troops are stationed in the country in positions not far from those of Iran-backed Shi’ite militias. The second security source told Reuters that the snipers were using radio communications equipment that was provided by Iran and is difficult to intercept, giving the groups an essentially private network. A group of senior commanders from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards travelled to Iraq on the second day of the protests and met with Iraqi intelligence and security officials, according to a diplomat in the region familiar with Iran’s decision-making process. After the meeting, senior Revolutionary Guard officers with experience in curbing civil unrest continued to advise the Iraqi government, the diplomat said, although no Iranian soldiers were deployed. A senior commander of one of the Iran-backed militias - who said his group was not involved in efforts to stop the protests or the resulting violence - said Tehran consulted closely with forces trying to quell the demonstrations. “After two days, they jumped in and supplied the government and militias with intelligence,” the militia leader told Reuters. “Iranian advisors insisted on having a role and warned us that the ongoing protests, if not reversed, will undermine the government of Abdul Mahdi.”

Iran-backed militias deployed snipers in Iraq protests: Report

Iraq's government issued a second package of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-iran-iraqs-unrest-is-plot-to-undo-bilateral-ties-254423">proposed social reforms </a>on Tuesday in an attempt to meet the demands of anti-government protesters who have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/calm-returns-after-iraq-protests-but-political-crisis-remains-254513">demonstrated nationwide for eight days</a>, with the loss of 110 lives and 6,000 wounded.

Protesters demanding the removal of the government and a political class they view as corrupt have clashed with Iraqi security forces, mainly in the capital of Baghdad and the south.

Tuesday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-president-urges-end-to-escalation-after-days-of-deadly-protests-254428">13-point plan issued by Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi </a>centers on subsidies and housing for the poor, as well as training and educational initiatives for unemployed youth.

Following a cabinet meeting, the prime minister posted his reforms on social media, although most Iraqis have been cut off from the internet and social media for several days.

Protests resumed on Monday night in Baghdad's Sadr City district, with at least one of the security forces killed, although much of Iraq appeared quieter than it has been for a week, as politicians sought a way to end the uprising.

Iraqi security forces began arresting protesters after nightfall on Tuesday in eastern and northwestern parts of Baghdad, police sources told Reuters.

Police carried recent photographs of protesters to identify and arrest them. Iraq's semi-official high commission for human rights said about 500 people had been released from the 800 detained last week.

Iraq's military said on Tuesday one member of an Interior Ministry force was killed and four wounded when they came under fire from unknown assailants in Sadr City, where 15 people died the previous night in riots.

In a telephone call with Abdul Madhi, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo condemned the violence, urging the government to exercise maximum restraint and take steps to tackle protesters` grievances, the US State Department said late on Tuesday.

The two officials spoke recently, it said in a statement, but did not mention the date.

The violence has been the worst in Iraq since it put down an insurgency by the Sunni Muslim Islamic State group nearly two years ago, and the biggest test for Abdul Mahdi, in office for a year.

The spread of the violence to Sadr City this week could heighten the security challenge. Unrest has historically been hard to put down in the district, home to about a third of Baghdad`s 8 million people, with little electricity or water and few jobs.

Protesters set fire to tires outside the municipal council building and courthouse in Mudhaffar Square, police said, adding that gunfire that targeted the security forces came from a crowd of protesters.

Demonstrators say they have come under attack from members of the security forces using live ammunition. Reuters journalists have witnessed protesters being killed and wounded by snipers firing from rooftops into crowds.

Iraq's military on Tuesday called back into service those officers and soldiers dismissed on suspicions they abandoned cities and towns to an Islamic State onslaught in 2014. 
Parliament, which on Tuesday held its first session since the crisis began, discussed the move and reform plans aimed at pacifying protesters.

Iraq's government issued a second package of proposed social reforms on Tuesday in an attempt to meet the demands of anti-government protesters who have demonstrated nationwide for eight days, with the loss of 110 lives and 6,000 wounded.

Iraq's government issued a second package of proposed social reforms on Tuesday in an attempt to meet the demands of anti-government protesters who have demonstrated nationwide for eight days, with the loss of 110 lives and 6,000 wounded. Protesters demanding the removal of the government and a political class they view as corrupt have clashed with Iraqi security forces, mainly in the capital of Baghdad and the south. Tuesday's 13-point plan issued by Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi centers on subsidies and housing for the poor, as well as training and educational initiatives for unemployed youth. Following a cabinet meeting, the prime minister posted his reforms on social media, although most Iraqis have been cut off from the internet and social media for several days. Protests resumed on Monday night in Baghdad's Sadr City district, with at least one of the security forces killed, although much of Iraq appeared quieter than it has been for a week, as politicians sought a way to end the uprising. Iraqi security forces began arresting protesters after nightfall on Tuesday in eastern and northwestern parts of Baghdad, police sources told Reuters. Police carried recent photographs of protesters to identify and arrest them. Iraq's semi-official high commission for human rights said about 500 people had been released from the 800 detained last week. Iraq's military said on Tuesday one member of an Interior Ministry force was killed and four wounded when they came under fire from unknown assailants in Sadr City, where 15 people died the previous night in riots. In a telephone call with Abdul Madhi, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo condemned the violence, urging the government to exercise maximum restraint and take steps to tackle protesters` grievances, the US State Department said late on Tuesday. The two officials spoke recently, it said in a statement, but did not mention the date. The violence has been the worst in Iraq since it put down an insurgency by the Sunni Muslim Islamic State group nearly two years ago, and the biggest test for Abdul Mahdi, in office for a year. The spread of the violence to Sadr City this week could heighten the security challenge. Unrest has historically been hard to put down in the district, home to about a third of Baghdad`s 8 million people, with little electricity or water and few jobs. Protesters set fire to tires outside the municipal council building and courthouse in Mudhaffar Square, police said, adding that gunfire that targeted the security forces came from a crowd of protesters. Demonstrators say they have come under attack from members of the security forces using live ammunition. Reuters journalists have witnessed protesters being killed and wounded by snipers firing from rooftops into crowds. Iraq's military on Tuesday called back into service those officers and soldiers dismissed on suspicions they abandoned cities and towns to an Islamic State onslaught in 2014. Parliament, which on Tuesday held its first session since the crisis began, discussed the move and reform plans aimed at pacifying protesters.

Protests resume in Iraq's Sadr City as uprising enters second week

Iraq woke up Tuesday from its first quiet night after a week of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-violent-protests-in-iraq-at-least-100-dead-over-6000-hurt-254349">anti-government protests</a> that left dozens dead and sparked a crisis its president said required a "national dialogue".&nbsp;

Morning traffic around the city was back to normal, most streets had reopened and an internet blackout in place for most of the past week appeared to ease just hours before parliament was expected to meet.&nbsp;

His voice sometimes breaking during a televised address, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-president-urges-end-to-escalation-after-days-of-deadly-protests-254428">President Barham Saleh appealed</a> for "sons of the same country" to put an end to the "discord" that has reigned since protests erupted one week ago.

They began in Baghdad, with young demonstrators demanding an end to rampant corruption and chronic unemployment but then escalated with calls for a complete overhaul of the political system spreading to the Shiite-dominated south.&nbsp;

They were unprecedented because of their apparent spontaneity and independence in a deeply politicized society, but have also been exceptionally deadly - with more than 100 people killed and 6,000 wounded since Tuesday.

Saleh said those responsible for the violence were "enemies of the people" and proposed a cabinet reshuffle, more oversight to stamp out corruption, and a "national, all-encompassing and frank dialogue” without “foreign interference.”&nbsp;

Saleh was not the first to suggest a way out of the political crisis. Embattled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-prime-minister-pledges-reforms-to-calm-angry-protests-254067">Prime Minister Adil Abdul Mahdi </a>and parliament speaker Mohammed Hal-Halbusi have both proposed a laundry list of reforms to address popular grievances.&nbsp;

But protesters have repeatedly told AFP they had "nothing left to lose", and have scoffed at overtures by political and religious figures.

Iraq woke up Tuesday from its first quiet night after a week of anti-government protests that left dozens dead and sparked a crisis its president said required a "national dialogue".

Iraq woke up Tuesday from its first quiet night after a week of anti-government protests that left dozens dead and sparked a crisis its president said required a "national dialogue". Morning traffic around the city was back to normal, most streets had reopened and an internet blackout in place for most of the past week appeared to ease just hours before parliament was expected to meet. His voice sometimes breaking during a televised address, President Barham Saleh appealed for "sons of the same country" to put an end to the "discord" that has reigned since protests erupted one week ago. They began in Baghdad, with young demonstrators demanding an end to rampant corruption and chronic unemployment but then escalated with calls for a complete overhaul of the political system spreading to the Shiite-dominated south. They were unprecedented because of their apparent spontaneity and independence in a deeply politicized society, but have also been exceptionally deadly - with more than 100 people killed and 6,000 wounded since Tuesday. Saleh said those responsible for the violence were "enemies of the people" and proposed a cabinet reshuffle, more oversight to stamp out corruption, and a "national, all-encompassing and frank dialogue” without “foreign interference.” Saleh was not the first to suggest a way out of the political crisis. Embattled Prime Minister Adil Abdul Mahdi and parliament speaker Mohammed Hal-Halbusi have both proposed a laundry list of reforms to address popular grievances. But protesters have repeatedly told AFP they had "nothing left to lose", and have scoffed at overtures by political and religious figures.

Calm returns after Iraq protests but political crisis remains

Iraq's president called Monday for a "halt to escalation" after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-violent-protests-in-iraq-at-least-100-dead-over-6000-hurt-254349">widespread protests that killed dozens</a>, including an overnight rally in east Baghdad in which the military admitted using "excessive force".

Demonstrations have rocked the capital and Iraq's southern provinces since Tuesday, first demanding reforms to fight corruption and unemployment but ramping up to calls for a total overhaul of the country's political system.

In a televised address, President Barham Saleh appealed for a "halt to escalation" and proposed a "national, all-encompassing and frank dialogue… without foreign interference" to chart a way out of the crisis. &nbsp;

"There is no legitimacy to any political process or system that does not work to achieve your demands," Saleh said, addressing protesters.

The demonstrations are unprecedented in Iraq because of their apparent spontaneity and independence in a deeply politicized society.

But they have also been exceptionally deadly with more than 100 people killed and 6,000 wounded since Tuesday.

Witnesses have reported that security forces used tear gas and live rounds while authorities accused "unidentified snipers" of shooting at protesters and the police.

Saleh said those who attacked demonstrators and security forces were "enemies of the people" and denounced weekend raids on local and regional media stations.

His statement came hours after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-military-admits-excessive-force-used-in-deadly-protests-254197">Iraq's military admitted using "excessive force outside the rules of engagement</a>" against a protest in the eastern Baghdad district of Sadr City. &nbsp;

An <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-18-killed-in-iraq-protests-overnight-government-issues-new-promises-254103/amp">overnight rally</a> there deteriorated into clashes that left 13 people dead, according to medics and security sources.

In videos distributed on social media, protesters could be seen ducking into streets littered with burning tires as volleys of gunfire and suspected heavy weapons were heard.

But by Monday evening, in line with government orders, the military had been pulled out of Sadr City and a few police officers could be seen on the edges of the neighbourhood, an AFP photographer there said.

Monday’s statement was the first time security forces acknowledged using disproportionate measures, a step cautiously welcomed by Amnesty International.

"The security forces' admission of using excessive force is a first step that must be translated on the ground, to rein in the behavior of security forces and the army," it said in Arabic.

"The next step is accountability."

The International Committee of the Red Cross on Monday urged for Iraqi health workers to be allowed to treat the wounded safely.

"The alternative is unthinkable for a population already weary and in need," said Katharina Ritz, ICRC's head of delegation in Iraq.

Sadr City, a densely populated, impoverished part of the capital, is a bastion of firebrand cleric Moqtada Sadr who has thrown his weight behind the protests by calling on Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi's government to resign.

But the embattled premier instead announced a series of reforms to create jobs, boost social welfare and oust corrupt officials.

He has accused "saboteurs" of infiltrating the protests, a claim echoed by the Hashed al-Shaabi, a powerful network of mostly-Shiite, pro-Iran paramilitary units opposed to the US.

"We know who stands behind these protests. The plan to bring down the regime has failed," its chief Faleh Al-Fayyadh told journalists in Baghdad.

He said his forces would support actions against corrupt institutions but not "the fall of the regime", a chant that has featured more prominently in the protests in recent days.

"Those who wanted to defame Iraq will be punished," Fayyadh said, adding that his forces were "ready for any government order".

His words echoed a statement earlier Monday by Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who accused "enemies" of trying to drive a wedge between Tehran and Baghdad.

"Enemies seek to sow discord but they've failed &amp; their conspiracy won't be effective," Khamenei was quoted as saying on his office's Twitter account.

Iran has urged its citizens planning to take part in a major Shiite pilgrimage in Iraq to delay their travel into the country over the violence.

Baghdad has close but complicated ties with Tehran, which enjoys significant influence among its Shiite political groups, but is also an ally of Washington.

On Monday, Abdel Mahdi said he discussed the recent events and reform plans in a phone call with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, without providing further details.

And he said he met on Monday with visiting Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

Iraq's president called Monday for a "halt to escalation" after widespread protests that killed dozens, including an overnight rally in east Baghdad in which the military admitted using "excessive force".

Iraq's president called Monday for a "halt to escalation" after widespread protests that killed dozens, including an overnight rally in east Baghdad in which the military admitted using "excessive force". Demonstrations have rocked the capital and Iraq's southern provinces since Tuesday, first demanding reforms to fight corruption and unemployment but ramping up to calls for a total overhaul of the country's political system. In a televised address, President Barham Saleh appealed for a "halt to escalation" and proposed a "national, all-encompassing and frank dialogue… without foreign interference" to chart a way out of the crisis. "There is no legitimacy to any political process or system that does not work to achieve your demands," Saleh said, addressing protesters. The demonstrations are unprecedented in Iraq because of their apparent spontaneity and independence in a deeply politicized society. But they have also been exceptionally deadly with more than 100 people killed and 6,000 wounded since Tuesday. Witnesses have reported that security forces used tear gas and live rounds while authorities accused "unidentified snipers" of shooting at protesters and the police. Saleh said those who attacked demonstrators and security forces were "enemies of the people" and denounced weekend raids on local and regional media stations. His statement came hours after Iraq's military admitted using "excessive force outside the rules of engagement" against a protest in the eastern Baghdad district of Sadr City. An overnight rally there deteriorated into clashes that left 13 people dead, according to medics and security sources. In videos distributed on social media, protesters could be seen ducking into streets littered with burning tires as volleys of gunfire and suspected heavy weapons were heard. But by Monday evening, in line with government orders, the military had been pulled out of Sadr City and a few police officers could be seen on the edges of the neighbourhood, an AFP photographer there said. Monday’s statement was the first time security forces acknowledged using disproportionate measures, a step cautiously welcomed by Amnesty International. "The security forces' admission of using excessive force is a first step that must be translated on the ground, to rein in the behavior of security forces and the army," it said in Arabic. "The next step is accountability." The International Committee of the Red Cross on Monday urged for Iraqi health workers to be allowed to treat the wounded safely. "The alternative is unthinkable for a population already weary and in need," said Katharina Ritz, ICRC's head of delegation in Iraq. Sadr City, a densely populated, impoverished part of the capital, is a bastion of firebrand cleric Moqtada Sadr who has thrown his weight behind the protests by calling on Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi's government to resign. But the embattled premier instead announced a series of reforms to create jobs, boost social welfare and oust corrupt officials. He has accused "saboteurs" of infiltrating the protests, a claim echoed by the Hashed al-Shaabi, a powerful network of mostly-Shiite, pro-Iran paramilitary units opposed to the US. "We know who stands behind these protests. The plan to bring down the regime has failed," its chief Faleh Al-Fayyadh told journalists in Baghdad. He said his forces would support actions against corrupt institutions but not "the fall of the regime", a chant that has featured more prominently in the protests in recent days. "Those who wanted to defame Iraq will be punished," Fayyadh said, adding that his forces were "ready for any government order". His words echoed a statement earlier Monday by Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who accused "enemies" of trying to drive a wedge between Tehran and Baghdad. "Enemies seek to sow discord but they've failed & their conspiracy won't be effective," Khamenei was quoted as saying on his office's Twitter account. Iran has urged its citizens planning to take part in a major Shiite pilgrimage in Iraq to delay their travel into the country over the violence. Baghdad has close but complicated ties with Tehran, which enjoys significant influence among its Shiite political groups, but is also an ally of Washington. On Monday, Abdel Mahdi said he discussed the recent events and reform plans in a phone call with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, without providing further details. And he said he met on Monday with visiting Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

Iraqi President urges end to 'escalation' after days of deadly protests

India & Iraq Shared Cultural, Trade & Political Ties Before The U.S.' War On Terror In 2003 As of August 2019, Iraq is India's biggest oil supplier. But the bilateral ties extend beyond oil and energy. For centuries India and Iraq shared diplomatic and cultural ties. This report explores the history of bilateral ties between India and Iraq.

Gravitas: India's Relationship With Iraq: A Forgotten Tale

As 30,000 Indians visit Iraq annually on pilgrimage, 6,000 Indian employees in Karbala refinery project. So, Should India worry of protests which are going on in Iraq these days? We discuss with Sanjay Kapoor & Kadira Pethiyagoda from New Delhi and London respectively.

Iraq Protests: Should India Worry?

Fault lines of Iraq become visible as protests roar

The United Nations urged Saturday an end to violence in Iraq, after five days of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-protest-death-toll-nears-100-rights-panel-253906">anti-government rallies </a>marred by the killing of nearly 100 people, mainly protesters. &nbsp;

The demonstrations -- which have evolved from initial demands for employment and better services to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/innovative-iraqis-dodge-net-blackout-to-illuminate-protest-violence-253984">fall of the government</a> -- carried on into the night in various neighbourhoods of Baghdad and southern Iraq, as authorities struggled to agree a response.

Security forces broke up a mass rally in the east of Baghdad, where protesters faced volleys of tear gas and live rounds fired in their direction, witnesses said.

"Five days of reported deaths and injuries: this must stop," said the United Nations' top official in Iraq, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert.&nbsp;

She described the violence as a "senseless loss of life" and said those behind it must be held accountable.&nbsp;

The authorities accused unidentified snipers of shooting into the crowd and said they were searching residential neighbourhoods for those responsible.&nbsp;

Watch: Iraq anti-government protest - military deployed to quell protests

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iraq-anti-government-protest-military-deployed-to-quell-protests-253834/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

At least 99 people have died and nearly 4,000 wounded since protests began in the capital on Tuesday before spreading to the south of the country, according to the Iraqi parliament's human rights commission.

The mainly young, male protesters have insisted their movement is not linked to any party or religious establishment and have scoffed at recent overtures by politicians.&nbsp;

On Saturday, demonstrators in the southern city of Nasiriyah set fire to the headquarters of six different political parties.&nbsp;

Thousands also descended on the governorate in the southern city of Diwaniyah, where gunfire was unleashed into the air, AFP correspondents there said.&nbsp;

Parliament's human rights commission said Saturday that most of those who have died in the last five days fell in Baghdad, while 250 other people were treated in the capital for sniper wounds.

"We demand clarification from the Iraqi government on those wounded in Baghdad by sniper fire, which is ongoing today," the commission said.

Parliamentary manoeuvring

Parliament had been due to meet at 1:00 pm (1000 GMT) but could not reach quorum, after firebrand cleric Moqtada al-Sadr's bloc of 54 lawmakers and other factions boycotted the session.

The former militia leader threw his weight behind the demonstrations on Friday with a call for the resignation of Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi.

Sadr's movement has the power and organisation to bring large numbers of supporters onto the streets, but at the risk of alienating many of those whose protests in recent days have been based on rejecting all of Iraq's feuding political factions.

Parliamentary speaker Mohammed al-Halbusi had extended a hand to protesters saying "your voice is being heard".

But one protester said late Friday "these men don't represent us".

"We don't want parties anymore. We don't want anyone to speak in our name."&nbsp;

Iraq has a population of just under 40 million people and is currently the fifth-largest oil producer and exporter worldwide, and the second-largest OPEC producer.&nbsp;

Youth unemployment stands at 25 per cent, twice the overall rate, according to the World Bank which adds that an estimated 22.5 per cent of the population was living in poverty in 2014.

The largely spontaneous protests have presented the biggest challenge yet to the Iraqi premier, who came to power a year ago as a consensus candidate promising reforms but whose response to protesters has been seen as tepid. &nbsp;

"Abdel Mahdi should have come forward with decisive changes, like the sacking of leading politicians accused of corruption," said Iraqi analyst Sarmad al-Bayati. &nbsp;

Authorities restricted access to Facebook and Whatsapp after anti-government demonstrations began on Tuesday, before ordering a total network shutdown on Wednesday.

'Promised reforms'

Political and religious rifts run deep in Iraq, and protests are typically called for by party or sect –- making the last five days exceptional, said Fanar Haddad an expert at Singapore University’s Middle East Institute.&nbsp;

"This is the first time we hear people saying they want the downfall of the regime," Haddad said.

Sadr, a former militia leader turned nationalist politician, demanded on Friday that the government resign to clear the way for a fresh election supervised by the United Nations.&nbsp;

His bloc is the largest in parliament, and his intervention sets the scene for a possible showdown with the speaker, who has made his own bid to make political capital out of the protests.

Halbusi sought to allay protesters Saturday by announcing in a news conference a long list of promised reforms over employment and social welfare, but it was not clear he would succeed in appeasing the demonstrators.

Iraq's Shiite spiritual leader Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani used his weekly Friday prayer sermon to urge authorities to heed the demands of demonstrators, warning the protests could escalate unless clear steps are taken immediately. 
&nbsp;

The United Nations urged Saturday an end to violence in Iraq, after five days of anti-government rallies marred by the killing of nearly 100 people, mainly protesters.

The United Nations urged Saturday an end to violence in Iraq, after five days of anti-government rallies marred by the killing of nearly 100 people, mainly protesters. The demonstrations -- which have evolved from initial demands for employment and better services to the fall of the government -- carried on into the night in various neighbourhoods of Baghdad and southern Iraq, as authorities struggled to agree a response. Security forces broke up a mass rally in the east of Baghdad, where protesters faced volleys of tear gas and live rounds fired in their direction, witnesses said. "Five days of reported deaths and injuries: this must stop," said the United Nations' top official in Iraq, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert. She described the violence as a "senseless loss of life" and said those behind it must be held accountable. The authorities accused unidentified snipers of shooting into the crowd and said they were searching residential neighbourhoods for those responsible. Watch: Iraq anti-government protest - military deployed to quell protests × At least 99 people have died and nearly 4,000 wounded since protests began in the capital on Tuesday before spreading to the south of the country, according to the Iraqi parliament's human rights commission. The mainly young, male protesters have insisted their movement is not linked to any party or religious establishment and have scoffed at recent overtures by politicians. On Saturday, demonstrators in the southern city of Nasiriyah set fire to the headquarters of six different political parties. Thousands also descended on the governorate in the southern city of Diwaniyah, where gunfire was unleashed into the air, AFP correspondents there said. Parliament's human rights commission said Saturday that most of those who have died in the last five days fell in Baghdad, while 250 other people were treated in the capital for sniper wounds. "We demand clarification from the Iraqi government on those wounded in Baghdad by sniper fire, which is ongoing today," the commission said. Parliamentary manoeuvring Parliament had been due to meet at 1:00 pm (1000 GMT) but could not reach quorum, after firebrand cleric Moqtada al-Sadr's bloc of 54 lawmakers and other factions boycotted the session. The former militia leader threw his weight behind the demonstrations on Friday with a call for the resignation of Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi. Sadr's movement has the power and organisation to bring large numbers of supporters onto the streets, but at the risk of alienating many of those whose protests in recent days have been based on rejecting all of Iraq's feuding political factions. Parliamentary speaker Mohammed al-Halbusi had extended a hand to protesters saying "your voice is being heard". But one protester said late Friday "these men don't represent us". "We don't want parties anymore. We don't want anyone to speak in our name." Iraq has a population of just under 40 million people and is currently the fifth-largest oil producer and exporter worldwide, and the second-largest OPEC producer. Youth unemployment stands at 25 per cent, twice the overall rate, according to the World Bank which adds that an estimated 22.5 per cent of the population was living in poverty in 2014. The largely spontaneous protests have presented the biggest challenge yet to the Iraqi premier, who came to power a year ago as a consensus candidate promising reforms but whose response to protesters has been seen as tepid. "Abdel Mahdi should have come forward with decisive changes, like the sacking of leading politicians accused of corruption," said Iraqi analyst Sarmad al-Bayati. Authorities restricted access to Facebook and Whatsapp after anti-government demonstrations began on Tuesday, before ordering a total network shutdown on Wednesday. 'Promised reforms' Political and religious rifts run deep in Iraq, and protests are typically called for by party or sect –- making the last five days exceptional, said Fanar Haddad an expert at Singapore University’s Middle East Institute. "This is the first time we hear people saying they want the downfall of the regime," Haddad said. Sadr, a former militia leader turned nationalist politician, demanded on Friday that the government resign to clear the way for a fresh election supervised by the United Nations. His bloc is the largest in parliament, and his intervention sets the scene for a possible showdown with the speaker, who has made his own bid to make political capital out of the protests. Halbusi sought to allay protesters Saturday by announcing in a news conference a long list of promised reforms over employment and social welfare, but it was not clear he would succeed in appeasing the demonstrators. Iraq's Shiite spiritual leader Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani used his weekly Friday prayer sermon to urge authorities to heed the demands of demonstrators, warning the protests could escalate unless clear steps are taken immediately.

United Nations says 'this must stop' after Iraqi protest violence kills nearly 100

With secret satellites, pricey messages abroad and&nbsp;clandestine file transfers, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-protest-death-toll-nears-100-rights-panel-253906">young Iraqis are circumventing an internet blackout</a> aimed at stifling several days of bloody protests in the capital and beyond.&nbsp;

Authorities restricted access to Facebook and Whatsapp after anti-government demonstrations began on Tuesday,&nbsp;before ordering a total network shutdown on Wednesday.

The termination of Wifi, 3G and 4G access left protestors with just regular phone calls and mobile messages -- a few notable exceptions aside.&nbsp;

Ahmad, 29, works at an internet service provider that helped implement the government's shutdown, but still has internet access at its headquarters.&nbsp;

"I go to the protests in the morning and shoot video on my phone, then use the internet at work to upload them to Facebook or send them to media outside Iraq," he said, using a fake name for fear of retribution or legal action by the government.

Protesters say the internet outage is an attempt to suppress reports of security forces using indiscriminate force including tear gas, live rounds and water cannons.

Ahmad showed AFP footage he planned to send to international media later that evening -- shots could be heard fired across a mostly-empty street in Baghdad&nbsp;as Ahmad and fellow protesters took cover behind a concrete barrier.

"Friends are even giving me the footage they shoot on flash drives so everyone outside Iraq can see what's happening here," said Ahmad.&nbsp;

Before Tuesday, many Iraqis had taken to Facebook and Instagram to call for initial protests against a range of grievances: unemployment, mass government corruption, nepotism, poor public services, and more.&nbsp;

Images of young men and women marching towards the emblematic Tahrir Square flooded social media the first day, using the hashtag #save_Iraqi_people.&nbsp;

When restrictions on Facebook began, Iraqis acted quickly: many downloaded virtual private network (VPN) applications.

Others even began surreptitiously posting the details of the next protests in the comments section of Cinemana, a popular streaming service in Iraq.

But those avenues were shut off by the systemic shutdown.

Those that could afford to, therefore, erected costly satellites on their rooftops to get a window into the outside world.

'Follow the gunfire'

Nearly 100 people have died in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-protests-death-toll-rises-to-73-over-3000-injured-rights-commssion-253886">demonstrations since Tuesday</a>, most of them protesters but also personnel from the security forces, according to authorities.&nbsp;

"They’re trying to fight us not just with arms, but with this blackout," said 31-year-old protester Osama Mohammad.&nbsp;

"We used to check the different neighbourhoods' Facebook pages to know where to go for protests. Now we just follow the sound of gunfire," Mohammad told AFP.

"If they cut off regular phone lines, we'll be completely blind," he noted.&nbsp;

For 25-year-old women's rights activist Rasha, taking to the streets carries too much risk, but she says she has found a different way to get involved.

Every day, her male friends text her dozens of updates from protest squares across the country, which she then texts and phones through to friends in the United Arab Emirates and Europe.

"I'm an intermediary. I can’t protest myself so this is the least I can do," she said, telling AFP the phone credit she buys has cost her around $100 (90 euros) per day for the last three days.

Rasha, who comes from Baghdad, is also saving videos and other unpublished material from one of the first protests that turned violent. She attended that initial demonstration.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"They think we'll forget they fired at us, they think people won’t know. But I've got the videos and I'll publish everything I saw that day the minute the internet comes back," she said.&nbsp;

Jaafar Raad, an unemployed 29-year-old Iraqi who has frequently protested, is also storing dozens of images and videos to release once the blackout is lifted.

He even records voice notes from the protests themselves in applications like Whatsapp and Facebook, so that the audio messages will automatically send to friends abroad and international media outlets as soon as the internet returns.&nbsp;

"People must know what happened to us. This is so we can hold those <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-authorities-lift-baghdad-curfew-253920">behind the violence</a> accountable," he told AFP.&nbsp;

With secret satellites, pricey messages abroad and clandestine file transfers, young Iraqis are circumventing an internet blackout aimed at stifling several days of bloody protests in the capital and beyond.

With secret satellites, pricey messages abroad and clandestine file transfers, young Iraqis are circumventing an internet blackout aimed at stifling several days of bloody protests in the capital and beyond. Authorities restricted access to Facebook and Whatsapp after anti-government demonstrations began on Tuesday, before ordering a total network shutdown on Wednesday. The termination of Wifi, 3G and 4G access left protestors with just regular phone calls and mobile messages -- a few notable exceptions aside. Ahmad, 29, works at an internet service provider that helped implement the government's shutdown, but still has internet access at its headquarters. "I go to the protests in the morning and shoot video on my phone, then use the internet at work to upload them to Facebook or send them to media outside Iraq," he said, using a fake name for fear of retribution or legal action by the government. Protesters say the internet outage is an attempt to suppress reports of security forces using indiscriminate force including tear gas, live rounds and water cannons. Ahmad showed AFP footage he planned to send to international media later that evening -- shots could be heard fired across a mostly-empty street in Baghdad as Ahmad and fellow protesters took cover behind a concrete barrier. "Friends are even giving me the footage they shoot on flash drives so everyone outside Iraq can see what's happening here," said Ahmad. Before Tuesday, many Iraqis had taken to Facebook and Instagram to call for initial protests against a range of grievances: unemployment, mass government corruption, nepotism, poor public services, and more. Images of young men and women marching towards the emblematic Tahrir Square flooded social media the first day, using the hashtag #save_Iraqi_people. When restrictions on Facebook began, Iraqis acted quickly: many downloaded virtual private network (VPN) applications. Others even began surreptitiously posting the details of the next protests in the comments section of Cinemana, a popular streaming service in Iraq. But those avenues were shut off by the systemic shutdown. Those that could afford to, therefore, erected costly satellites on their rooftops to get a window into the outside world. 'Follow the gunfire' Nearly 100 people have died in the demonstrations since Tuesday, most of them protesters but also personnel from the security forces, according to authorities. "They’re trying to fight us not just with arms, but with this blackout," said 31-year-old protester Osama Mohammad. "We used to check the different neighbourhoods' Facebook pages to know where to go for protests. Now we just follow the sound of gunfire," Mohammad told AFP. "If they cut off regular phone lines, we'll be completely blind," he noted. For 25-year-old women's rights activist Rasha, taking to the streets carries too much risk, but she says she has found a different way to get involved. Every day, her male friends text her dozens of updates from protest squares across the country, which she then texts and phones through to friends in the United Arab Emirates and Europe. "I'm an intermediary. I can’t protest myself so this is the least I can do," she said, telling AFP the phone credit she buys has cost her around $100 (90 euros) per day for the last three days. Rasha, who comes from Baghdad, is also saving videos and other unpublished material from one of the first protests that turned violent. She attended that initial demonstration. "They think we'll forget they fired at us, they think people won’t know. But I've got the videos and I'll publish everything I saw that day the minute the internet comes back," she said. Jaafar Raad, an unemployed 29-year-old Iraqi who has frequently protested, is also storing dozens of images and videos to release once the blackout is lifted. He even records voice notes from the protests themselves in applications like Whatsapp and Facebook, so that the audio messages will automatically send to friends abroad and international media outlets as soon as the internet returns. "People must know what happened to us. This is so we can hold those behind the violence accountable," he told AFP.

Innovative Iraqis dodge net blackout to illuminate protest violence

Iraqi security forces opened fire on thousands of demonstrators who defied a curfew in Baghdad on Thursday (October 3) and exchanged fire with gunmen in a southern city, killing two people on the third day of nationwide anti-government protests. Watch this video to know more.

Protests in Iraq enters 3rd day: Death toll climbs to at least 34

The death toll from days of violent demonstrations across <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-forces-fire-at-protesters-in-baghdad-after-pm-pledges-vague-reform-253693">Iraq </a>surged to 46 on Friday, most of them killed in the last 24 hours, as unrest rapidly accelerated and the country's most powerful cleric placed the blame squarely on politicians.

In a rare intervention, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, whose word is law for most of Iraq's majority Shi'ites, called on protesters and the security forces to avoid violence. But he also ordered political factions to respond to protest demands.

"It is sorrowful that there have been so many deaths, casualties and destruction," Sistani said in a letter read out by his representative Ahmed al-Safi during a sermon in the holy city of Kerbala.

"The government and political sides have not answered the demands of the people to fight corruption or achieved anything on the ground," he said. "Parliament holds the biggest responsibility for what is happening."

In an overnight TV address, Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said he understood the frustration of the public but there was no "magic solution" to Iraq's problems. He pledged reforms, though these have so far drawn scorn from demonstrators.

The violent demonstrations have escalated by the day since they first erupted on Tuesday, sweeping across the country spontaneously, without public backing from any organized political group and taking the authorities by surprise.

Security forces have fired live ammunition at crowds of mainly young men, and gunmen have fired back. Hundreds of people have been wounded, including members of the security forces as well as demonstrators.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-police-fire-live-rounds-as-protesters-defy-curfew-253498/amp">Police </a>and medical sources said the death toll included 18 people killed in the southern city of Nassiriya, 16 in the capital Baghdad, four in the southern city of Amara and four in Baquba, to the capital's north. Other deaths were reported in two other southern cities, Hilla and Najaf.

Curfews were imposed in a number of cities. Authorities shut roads into the capital from the north and northeast and were sending reinforcements to Baghdad's densely-populated east. Military convoys were being sent to Nassiriya, the city worst hit by the violence.

Protesters in Baghdad gathered in darkness overnight by a bonfire set among the flaming wreckage of an armoured vehicle, across the Tigris River from the government compound.

"They are shooting live fire at the Iraqi people and the revolutionaries. We can cross the bridge and take them out of the Green Zone!" a man shouted to Reuters TV.

"Abdul Mahdi, they will cross the bridge. You better resign. Resign. The people demand the fall of the regime!" he shouted as the crowd behind him took up a chant that swept the Middle East during popular uprisings across the region in 2011: "The people demand the fall of the regime!"

'Rage'

The unrest, fuelled by popular rage over poor living standards and corruption, is Iraq's biggest security challenge since the defeat of Islamic State in 2017. It is also the first test for Abdul Mahdi, installed last year by Shi'ite parties that have dominated Iraq since the 2003 fall of Saddam Hussein.

It also comes on the eve of the Arbaeen Shi'ite pilgrimage, which in recent years has drawn 20 million worshippers, trekking for days on foot across southern Iraq in the world's biggest annual gathering, ten times the size of the Mecca Hajj.

Pilgrims were already taking to the roads on Friday, although in what appeared to be smaller numbers than in recent years. Iran has closed one of the border crossings used by millions of pilgrims. Qatar has told its citizens to stay away.

A senior Iranian cleric blamed the unrest on the United States and Israel, saying they aimed to thwart the pilgrimage.

The Iraqi capital was quieter early on Friday ahead of Muslim prayers, although police fired live ammunition again in the morning to disperse small crowds. An ongoing curfew, defied by thousands of demonstrators on Thursday, saw the army and special forces deploy around central squares and streets.

Iraqis expect large protests to erupt later in the day.

Abdul Mahdi acknowledged the public discontent in his overnight television message, insisting politicians were aware of the suffering of the masses: "We do not live in ivory towers - we walk among you in the streets of Baghdad," he said.

He called for calm and for support from lawmakers to reshuffle cabinet posts away from the influence of big parties and groups. He said a basic wage for poor families would be discussed by the government, but that no "magic solutions" had been available to fix the country.

The protests could grow if they receive formal backing from the opposition political bloc of firebrand cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, who has long denounced corruption and the political elite.

'Revolution of Hunger'

"We Sadrists support the protests by all means, but we would wait for orders from our leader Sayyed Moqtada before we would take to the streets," a senior Sadrist politician, Awad Awadi, told Reuters. He called the protests "a revolution of hunger."

Ahmed al-Kinani, a lawmaker from a party linked to a powerful Iran-backed militia, said most of the protesters were simply demanding their rights, but a minority were using the demonstrations to target the security forces. His party was willing to do what it takes to calm the situation, including accepting a reshuffling of cabinet ministries.

Two years after the defeat of the Islamic State Sunni militant movement, Iraq has finally been at peace and free to trade for the first extended period since the 1970s, with oil exports at record levels. But Iraqis say they have seen few benefits, with infrastructure still in ruins and jobs scarce.

The death toll from days of violent demonstrations across Iraq surged to 46 on Friday, most of them killed in the last 24 hours, as unrest rapidly accelerated and the country's most powerful cleric placed the blame squarely on politicians.

The death toll from days of violent demonstrations across Iraq surged to 46 on Friday, most of them killed in the last 24 hours, as unrest rapidly accelerated and the country's most powerful cleric placed the blame squarely on politicians. In a rare intervention, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, whose word is law for most of Iraq's majority Shi'ites, called on protesters and the security forces to avoid violence. But he also ordered political factions to respond to protest demands. "It is sorrowful that there have been so many deaths, casualties and destruction," Sistani said in a letter read out by his representative Ahmed al-Safi during a sermon in the holy city of Kerbala. "The government and political sides have not answered the demands of the people to fight corruption or achieved anything on the ground," he said. "Parliament holds the biggest responsibility for what is happening." In an overnight TV address, Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said he understood the frustration of the public but there was no "magic solution" to Iraq's problems. He pledged reforms, though these have so far drawn scorn from demonstrators. The violent demonstrations have escalated by the day since they first erupted on Tuesday, sweeping across the country spontaneously, without public backing from any organized political group and taking the authorities by surprise. Security forces have fired live ammunition at crowds of mainly young men, and gunmen have fired back. Hundreds of people have been wounded, including members of the security forces as well as demonstrators. Police and medical sources said the death toll included 18 people killed in the southern city of Nassiriya, 16 in the capital Baghdad, four in the southern city of Amara and four in Baquba, to the capital's north. Other deaths were reported in two other southern cities, Hilla and Najaf. Curfews were imposed in a number of cities. Authorities shut roads into the capital from the north and northeast and were sending reinforcements to Baghdad's densely-populated east. Military convoys were being sent to Nassiriya, the city worst hit by the violence. Protesters in Baghdad gathered in darkness overnight by a bonfire set among the flaming wreckage of an armoured vehicle, across the Tigris River from the government compound. "They are shooting live fire at the Iraqi people and the revolutionaries. We can cross the bridge and take them out of the Green Zone!" a man shouted to Reuters TV. "Abdul Mahdi, they will cross the bridge. You better resign. Resign. The people demand the fall of the regime!" he shouted as the crowd behind him took up a chant that swept the Middle East during popular uprisings across the region in 2011: "The people demand the fall of the regime!" 'Rage' The unrest, fuelled by popular rage over poor living standards and corruption, is Iraq's biggest security challenge since the defeat of Islamic State in 2017. It is also the first test for Abdul Mahdi, installed last year by Shi'ite parties that have dominated Iraq since the 2003 fall of Saddam Hussein. It also comes on the eve of the Arbaeen Shi'ite pilgrimage, which in recent years has drawn 20 million worshippers, trekking for days on foot across southern Iraq in the world's biggest annual gathering, ten times the size of the Mecca Hajj. Pilgrims were already taking to the roads on Friday, although in what appeared to be smaller numbers than in recent years. Iran has closed one of the border crossings used by millions of pilgrims. Qatar has told its citizens to stay away. A senior Iranian cleric blamed the unrest on the United States and Israel, saying they aimed to thwart the pilgrimage. The Iraqi capital was quieter early on Friday ahead of Muslim prayers, although police fired live ammunition again in the morning to disperse small crowds. An ongoing curfew, defied by thousands of demonstrators on Thursday, saw the army and special forces deploy around central squares and streets. Iraqis expect large protests to erupt later in the day. Abdul Mahdi acknowledged the public discontent in his overnight television message, insisting politicians were aware of the suffering of the masses: "We do not live in ivory towers - we walk among you in the streets of Baghdad," he said. He called for calm and for support from lawmakers to reshuffle cabinet posts away from the influence of big parties and groups. He said a basic wage for poor families would be discussed by the government, but that no "magic solutions" had been available to fix the country. The protests could grow if they receive formal backing from the opposition political bloc of firebrand cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, who has long denounced corruption and the political elite. 'Revolution of Hunger' "We Sadrists support the protests by all means, but we would wait for orders from our leader Sayyed Moqtada before we would take to the streets," a senior Sadrist politician, Awad Awadi, told Reuters. He called the protests "a revolution of hunger." Ahmed al-Kinani, a lawmaker from a party linked to a powerful Iran-backed militia, said most of the protesters were simply demanding their rights, but a minority were using the demonstrations to target the security forces. His party was willing to do what it takes to calm the situation, including accepting a reshuffling of cabinet ministries. Two years after the defeat of the Islamic State Sunni militant movement, Iraq has finally been at peace and free to trade for the first extended period since the 1970s, with oil exports at record levels. But Iraqis say they have seen few benefits, with infrastructure still in ruins and jobs scarce.

Death toll surges to 46 as Iraq unrest accelerates; no 'magic solution' says PM

Iraq's revered Shiite spiritual leader Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani on Friday endorsed the protests engulfing the country, and called on the government to heed them "before it's too late."

Speaking through a representative, Sistani said the government "must do what it can to improve public services, find work for the unemployed, end clientelism, deal with the corruption issue and send those implicated in it to prison".

"The government must change its approach in dealing with the country's problems," the cleric said, adding that lawmakers also bore a heavy responsibility.

Sistani wields huge influence within Iraq's Shiite majority community, among whom the deadly protests of the past four days have been concentrated.

Celebratory gunfire sounded around <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iraq-declares-curfew-in-baghdad-until-further-notice-pm-adel-abdul-mahdi-253478">Baghdad</a> as Sistani's endorsement was relayed to protesters.

Demonstrators have clashed repeatedly with riot police and troops in the capital and cities across the Shiite-dominated youth, but the mainly Kurdish north and Sunni Arab west have remained calm.

Sistani warned the government, which is dominated by Shiite factions, that the protests would only intensify if they failed to deal with people's grievances.

"The government must change its approach in dealing with the country's problems," he said.

It must take "clear and practical steps" or the protesters will "simply come back even stronger".

Sistani voiced dismay at the mounting death toll from the protests.

"There are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-forces-fire-at-protesters-in-baghdad-after-pm-pledges-vague-reform-253693">attacks on peaceful protesters</a> and security forces which we reject and condemn," he said.

At least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-in-bloody-protests-across-iraq-31-dead-253590">31&nbsp;people have been killed,</a> including four police, since Tuesday, medical and security sources told AFP.

Iraq's revered Shiite spiritual leader Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani on Friday endorsed the protests engulfing the country, and called on the government to heed them "before it's too late.

Iraq's revered Shiite spiritual leader Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani on Friday endorsed the protests engulfing the country, and called on the government to heed them "before it's too late." Speaking through a representative, Sistani said the government "must do what it can to improve public services, find work for the unemployed, end clientelism, deal with the corruption issue and send those implicated in it to prison". "The government must change its approach in dealing with the country's problems," the cleric said, adding that lawmakers also bore a heavy responsibility. Sistani wields huge influence within Iraq's Shiite majority community, among whom the deadly protests of the past four days have been concentrated. Celebratory gunfire sounded around Baghdad as Sistani's endorsement was relayed to protesters. Demonstrators have clashed repeatedly with riot police and troops in the capital and cities across the Shiite-dominated youth, but the mainly Kurdish north and Sunni Arab west have remained calm. Sistani warned the government, which is dominated by Shiite factions, that the protests would only intensify if they failed to deal with people's grievances. "The government must change its approach in dealing with the country's problems," he said. It must take "clear and practical steps" or the protesters will "simply come back even stronger". Sistani voiced dismay at the mounting death toll from the protests. "There are attacks on peaceful protesters and security forces which we reject and condemn," he said. At least 31 people have been killed, including four police, since Tuesday, medical and security sources told AFP.

Top Shiite cleric urges Iraq government to heed protesters

The U.N. called on Iraq on Friday to rapidly and transparently investigate force used by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-in-bloody-protests-across-iraq-31-dead-253590">anti-riot police in clashes with protesters</a> that have left dozens dead.

"We call on the Iraqi Government to allow people to freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly," Marta Hurtado, spokeswoman for the U.N. rights office, told journalists in Geneva.

Her appeal came as protesters continued to clash with anti-riot police on the fourth day of mass rallies that have left 34 people dead, according to an AFP count.

Hurtado said the U.N. rights office had independently confirmed 12 of those deaths in Baghdad, adding that "hundreds of other people have reportedly been injured, including members of the security forces".

"Dozens of demonstrators have been detained, although most were subsequently released," she said.

Demonstrations over corruption, unemployment and lacking services first broke out in Baghdad on Tuesday and have since spread to the Shiite-dominated south, while the northern and western provinces have remained relatively quiet.

They are unprecedented because of their apparent spontaneity and independence in a country where rallies are typically called by politicians or religious figures.

"We are worried by reports that security forces have used live ammunition and rubber bullets in some areas, and have also fired tear gas canisters directly at protestors," Hurtado said, insisting that in dealing with demonstrations, "the use of force should be exceptional".

"Any use of force must comply with applicable international human rights norms and standards," she said, stressing that firearms should never be used "except as a last resort to protect against an imminent threat of death or serious injury."

"All incidents in which the actions of security forces have resulted in death and injury should be promptly, independently and transparently investigated," she said.

The U.N. rights office stressed that the demonstrators' demands for economic and social rights to be respected were "legitimate".

"People's grievances need to be heard," Hurtado said.

The U.N. was also deeply concerned about the detention of at least three journalists, two of whom had subsequently been released, warning that this risked "deterring other journalists from reporting on the situation".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iraq-declares-curfew-in-baghdad-until-further-notice-pm-adel-abdul-mahdi-253478">Cuts to internet service</a> across much of the country were also of concern, Hurtado said, stressing that "blanket internet shutdowns are likely to contravene freedom of expression."

The U.N. called on Iraq on Friday to rapidly and transparently investigate force used by anti-riot police in clashes with protesters that have left dozens dead. "We call on the Iraqi Government to allow people to freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly," Marta Hurtado, spokeswoman for the U.

The U.N. called on Iraq on Friday to rapidly and transparently investigate force used by anti-riot police in clashes with protesters that have left dozens dead. "We call on the Iraqi Government to allow people to freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly," Marta Hurtado, spokeswoman for the U.N. rights office, told journalists in Geneva. Her appeal came as protesters continued to clash with anti-riot police on the fourth day of mass rallies that have left 34 people dead, according to an AFP count. Hurtado said the U.N. rights office had independently confirmed 12 of those deaths in Baghdad, adding that "hundreds of other people have reportedly been injured, including members of the security forces". "Dozens of demonstrators have been detained, although most were subsequently released," she said. Demonstrations over corruption, unemployment and lacking services first broke out in Baghdad on Tuesday and have since spread to the Shiite-dominated south, while the northern and western provinces have remained relatively quiet. They are unprecedented because of their apparent spontaneity and independence in a country where rallies are typically called by politicians or religious figures. "We are worried by reports that security forces have used live ammunition and rubber bullets in some areas, and have also fired tear gas canisters directly at protestors," Hurtado said, insisting that in dealing with demonstrations, "the use of force should be exceptional". "Any use of force must comply with applicable international human rights norms and standards," she said, stressing that firearms should never be used "except as a last resort to protect against an imminent threat of death or serious injury." "All incidents in which the actions of security forces have resulted in death and injury should be promptly, independently and transparently investigated," she said. The U.N. rights office stressed that the demonstrators' demands for economic and social rights to be respected were "legitimate". "People's grievances need to be heard," Hurtado said. The U.N. was also deeply concerned about the detention of at least three journalists, two of whom had subsequently been released, warning that this risked "deterring other journalists from reporting on the situation". Cuts to internet service across much of the country were also of concern, Hurtado said, stressing that "blanket internet shutdowns are likely to contravene freedom of expression."

U.N. urges Iraq to probe protest deaths 'transparently'

Police shot at a small group of protesters in Baghdad on Friday after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-in-bloody-protests-across-iraq-31-dead-253590">three deadly days of anti-government unrest</a>, and Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said no "magic solution" was available, pledging vague reform unlikely to placate Iraqis.

At least 27 people have been killed so far in violent demonstrations that have escalated by the day, sweeping across southern cities since they first erupted on Tuesday.

The unrest, fuelled by popular rage over poor living standards and corruption, is the first major challenge for Abdul Mahdi, who took office last year backed by Shi'ite parties that have dominated Iraq since the 2003 fall of Saddam Hussein.

It also comes on the eve of the Arbaeen Shi'ite pilgrimage, when as many as 20 million worshippers are expected to journey for days on foot across southern Iraq in the world's biggest annual gathering, ten times the size of the Mecca Hajj.

The Iraqi capital was mostly quiet ahead of Muslim Friday prayers. An ongoing curfew, defied by thousands of demonstrators on Thursday, saw the army and special forces deploy around central squares and streets.

Iraqis expect large protests to erupt later in the day, absent a meaningful response from politicians they accuse of holding back Iraq's recovery from years of conflict through corruption and neglect.

Abdul Mahdi acknowledged the public discontent in an overnight television message, insisting politicians were aware of the suffering of the masses: "We do not live in ivory towers - we walk among you in the streets of Baghdad," he said.

He called for calm and for support from lawmakers to reshuffle cabinet posts away from the influence of big parties and groups. He said a basic wage for poor families would be discussed by the government, but that no "magic solutions" had been available to fix the country.

Out on the streets of Baghdad overnight, protesters gathered by a bonfire set among the flaming wreckage of an armoured vehicle, across the Tigris River from the government compound.

"They are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-police-fire-live-rounds-as-protesters-defy-curfew-253498">shooting live fire at the Iraqi people and the revolutionaries.</a> We can cross the bridge and take them out of the Green Zone!" a man shouted to Reuters TV

"Abdul Mahdi, they will cross the bridge. You better resign. Resign. The people demand the fall of the regime!" he shouted as the crowd behind him took up a chant that swept the Middle East during popular uprisings across the region in 2011: "The people demand the fall of the regime!"

Two years after the defeat of the Islamic State Sunni militant movement, Iraq has finally been at peace and free to trade for the first extended period since the 1970s. Oil production is at record levels providing windfall income for Baghdad. Yet after decades of war and sanctions, infrastructure is still decrepit, cities are in ruins and there are few employment opportunities for a population of 40 million.

Protesters say they funds are being siphoned off by political parties who have a firm grip on power in Baghdad.

They clashed with security forces in mass demonstrations that began in Baghdad on Tuesday and spread to cities in the southern Shi'ite heartland. Hundreds of people have been wounded as security forces opened fire to disperse the crowds, and demonstrators in some areas have shot back.

Police shot at a small group of protesters in Baghdad on Friday after three deadly days of anti-government unrest, and Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said no "magic solution" was available, pledging vague reform unlikely to placate Iraqis.

Police shot at a small group of protesters in Baghdad on Friday after three deadly days of anti-government unrest, and Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said no "magic solution" was available, pledging vague reform unlikely to placate Iraqis. At least 27 people have been killed so far in violent demonstrations that have escalated by the day, sweeping across southern cities since they first erupted on Tuesday. The unrest, fuelled by popular rage over poor living standards and corruption, is the first major challenge for Abdul Mahdi, who took office last year backed by Shi'ite parties that have dominated Iraq since the 2003 fall of Saddam Hussein. It also comes on the eve of the Arbaeen Shi'ite pilgrimage, when as many as 20 million worshippers are expected to journey for days on foot across southern Iraq in the world's biggest annual gathering, ten times the size of the Mecca Hajj. The Iraqi capital was mostly quiet ahead of Muslim Friday prayers. An ongoing curfew, defied by thousands of demonstrators on Thursday, saw the army and special forces deploy around central squares and streets. Iraqis expect large protests to erupt later in the day, absent a meaningful response from politicians they accuse of holding back Iraq's recovery from years of conflict through corruption and neglect. Abdul Mahdi acknowledged the public discontent in an overnight television message, insisting politicians were aware of the suffering of the masses: "We do not live in ivory towers - we walk among you in the streets of Baghdad," he said. He called for calm and for support from lawmakers to reshuffle cabinet posts away from the influence of big parties and groups. He said a basic wage for poor families would be discussed by the government, but that no "magic solutions" had been available to fix the country. Out on the streets of Baghdad overnight, protesters gathered by a bonfire set among the flaming wreckage of an armoured vehicle, across the Tigris River from the government compound. "They are shooting live fire at the Iraqi people and the revolutionaries. We can cross the bridge and take them out of the Green Zone!" a man shouted to Reuters TV "Abdul Mahdi, they will cross the bridge. You better resign. Resign. The people demand the fall of the regime!" he shouted as the crowd behind him took up a chant that swept the Middle East during popular uprisings across the region in 2011: "The people demand the fall of the regime!" Two years after the defeat of the Islamic State Sunni militant movement, Iraq has finally been at peace and free to trade for the first extended period since the 1970s. Oil production is at record levels providing windfall income for Baghdad. Yet after decades of war and sanctions, infrastructure is still decrepit, cities are in ruins and there are few employment opportunities for a population of 40 million. Protesters say they funds are being siphoned off by political parties who have a firm grip on power in Baghdad. They clashed with security forces in mass demonstrations that began in Baghdad on Tuesday and spread to cities in the southern Shi'ite heartland. Hundreds of people have been wounded as security forces opened fire to disperse the crowds, and demonstrators in some areas have shot back.

Iraqi forces fire at protesters in Baghdad after PM pledges vague reform

Death toll climbs to at least 34 in Iraq on third day of protests

Iraq is declaring a curfew in Baghdad starting early on Thursday until further notice, Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi announced late on Wednesday, after two days of nationwide anti-government protests turned violent. Watch this video to know more.

Iraq declares curfew in Baghdad until further notice: PM Adel Abdul Mahdi

iraq-protests

Iraq Protests, News on Iraq Protests, stories on Iraq Protests, articles on Iraq Protests, Iraq Protests stories at Wion, Iraq Protests news, Iraq Protests latest news

iraq protests