Iraq protests: Death toll nears 100 as unrest enters fifth day

2019-10-05 16:41:02

The death toll from ongoing anti-government protests in Iraq has risen to almost 100, according to the country's parliamentary human rights commission. It also said more than 3,000 people had been injured. The authorities have tried to control the demonstrations - which began five days ago - with curfews and a near-total internet blackout. On Saturday, riot police blocked major meeting points in Baghdad. The protests are seen as the first major challenge to Mr Mahdi's fragile government, nearly a year since he came to power. An emergency session of parliament was scheduled for Saturday, but there are doubts as to whether this will go ahead. Demonstrators say they are taking a stand against unemployment, poor public services and corruption.