Iraq protests: Shots fired as demonstrators defy Baghdad curfew

2019-10-03 15:05:10

Security forces in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, have fired live rounds at protesters defying a curfew. The prime minister says the open-ended curfew - which has been in place since dawn - is needed to maintain order and protect protesters from "infiltrators". At least 18 people have been killed since Tuesday in clashes with security forces in Baghdad and other cities. Thousands have been taking to the streets to show their anger at the lack of jobs, poor services and corruption. The protests, which appear to lack any organised leadership, are the largest since Adel Abdul Mahdi became prime minister a year ago. The United Nations and the United States have expressed concern at the violence and urged the Iraqi authorities to exercise restraint.