Protest continues in few parts of Iraq over lack of public services; 7 protesters killed, dozens injured

Baghdad, September 5: Massive protest erupted in Iraq’s southern Basra province as the demonstrators took to the streets against lack of public services. Unfortunately, the protest turned violent and ‘Red’ as at least seven protesters were killed and more than 30 others were injured on Tuesday after the security forces opened fire at a protest.

 

Notably, hundreds of protestors in Basra province of Iraq on Tuesday came out to demonstrate against Iraqi government over the issue of lack of public services, unemployment and corruption. Angry demonstrators set the governor's building on fire which led security forces to open fire in which at least seven were killed and more than 30 others were injured. Immediately, Basra Operations Command declared a curfew.

Since July 9 this year, the Basra province, as well as other southern and central Shia-majority provinces, is witnessing protests which have spread to capital Iraq capital Baghdad. Demonstrators are demanding improved public services like water and electricity, more job opportunities and an end to government corruption.

According to the unofficial figures, 80 percent of Iraq’s overall crude oil exports originate from oilfields in Basra province. For years, residents have complained that foreign nationals, rather than locals, were being employed by the domestic energy sector. They also complain of frequent power outages amid summer temperatures that often reach as high as 50 degrees Celsius (122 F). But the continuous negligence of Iraqi government forced residents of Basra to a demonstration.