Iraqi officials say the death toll has risen to 10 after overnight clashes between protesters and security forces in Baghdad.
Security and medical officials said one protester died of his injuries Friday morning. He was wounded in bloody street clashes between Ahrar and Sinak bridges the previous night. The officials say over 100 people have been wounded. They spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations.
Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, the highest Shiite religious authority in Iraq, reemphasized calls to political parties to pass electoral reform laws and respond to the protesters’ demands.
Riot police close Rasheed Street during clashes between Iraqi security forces and anti-Government protesters, in Baghdad, Iraq, Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019. Iraqi officials said several protesters were killed as heavy clashes erupt in central Baghdad. (AP PhotoKhalid Mohammed)
Iraq's massive anti-government protest movement erupted Oct. 1 and quickly escalated into calls to sweep aside Iraq’s sectarian system.
Protesters occupy several Baghdad squares and parts of three bridges in a standoff with security forces.
Protesters gather during clashes between Iraqi security forces and anti-Government protesters in Baghdad, Iraq, Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019. Iraqi officials said several protesters were killed as heavy clashes erupt in central Baghdad. (AP PhotoKhalid Mohammed)