Dozens of Iraqi protesters injured after bloody attacks on Baghdad demonstration

Renewed clashes in the early hours on Wednesday saw dozens of protesters wounded in central Baghdad.

1 min read

20 November, 2019

Iraqi security forces used tear gas to repel demonstrators [Anadolu]

At least 27 protesters have been wounded in protests overnight in central Baghdad, Iraqi security officials said on Wednesday.

Agencies reported that clashes between protesters and security forces erupted between 4 am and 5 am on Wednesday near the Ahrar Bridge in the centre of the capital, the officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity under regulations.

Iraqi security forces used tear gas to repel demonstrators from advancing to the fortified Green Zone, the seat of government.

The protesters had occupied one side of the bridge, with security forces deployed on the other.

"Protesters were forced to withdraw towards Hafiz Alqadhi Square and Rasheed Street after reports of injuries," a protester told The New Arab.

At least 320 protesters have been killed and thousands wounded since the unrest began on 1 October, when tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets outraged by government corruption and poor basic services despite Iraq's vast oil wealth.