Iraqi security forces shot dead at least 13 protesters in the past 24 hours, dis...
BAGHDAD - Iraqi security forces shot dead at least 13 protesters in the past 24 hours, dispensing with weeks of relative restraint in favor of trying to stamp out demonstrations against political parties that control the government.
More than 260 Iraqis have been killed in demonstrations since the start of October against a government they see as corrupt and beholden to foreign interests, above all Iran. In a televised address on Tuesday, Abdul Mahdi said the protests were having an economic impact the country could not afford, and asked demonstrators to refrain from further damaging public and private property.Abdul Mahdi has said he is willing to resign if politicians agree on a replacement and has vowed a number of reforms. But protesters say that is not enough and the entire political class needs to go.
Security forces in riot gear stood opposite them, behind a barricade made from metal railings, dustbins and barbed wire. Protesters blame a corrupt political system that shares power among sectarian parties. Abdul Mahdi, in power for a year, enjoys the support of powerful Iranian-backed political parties allied to armed militia.
By the end of last week tens of thousands of people were turning out daily for by far the biggest anti-government demonstrations since the fall of Saddam Hussein in 2003.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Soundcheck: The 13 Best Music Releases Of The WeekWith special guests Camila Cabello, Lana Del Rey, and... Kendall Jenner?
Read more »
The 13 Most Iconic Zac Posen Looks of All TimeReviewing the designer's most memorable red carpet looks.
Read more »
At least 13 killed as Iraq resumes live gunfire against protestersMore than 260 Iraqis have been killed since the start of October in demonstrations against a government they see as corrupt.
Read more »
Soundcheck: The 13 Best Music Releases Of The Week.halsey's many outfit changes were the style highlight of the MTV EMAs
Read more »
Soundcheck: The 13 Best Music Releases Of The WeekHarryStyles just announced new music & I'm not okay!!
Read more »
Shake Shack shares fall more than 13% as same-store sales growth disappointsShake Shack shares fell more than 14% in extended trading Monday after the company reported third-quarter earnings that beat analysts' expectations, but turned in disappointing same-store sales growth.
Read more »