Skip to main content

Protesters in Iraq’s Nasiriyah fear Iran-backed armed groups

In the southern Iraqi province of Dhi Qar, activists say they fear they will be targeted by Iran-backed armed groups.

GettyImages-1178079297.jpg
Iraqi protesters pose with a national flag during an anti-government demonstration outside the burning local government headquarters in Nasiriyah, Iraq, Oct. 25, 2019. — AFP via Getty Images

NASIRIYAH, Iraq — Protests in Iraq’s southern Shiite-dominant provinces have garnered scant media attention despite thousands taking to the streets and the attendant deaths of a number of protesters and security forces. The situation escalated in the southern Iraqi province of Dhi Qar Nov. 17, with security forces shooting live ammunition to disperse protesters.

​Dozens have lost their lives in Nasiriyah, Al-Monitor learned during a visit to the city Nov. 9-10. Several activists said they are restricting their movements due to fear of arrest.

Related Topics

Subscribe for unlimited access

All news, events, memos, reports, and analysis, and access all 10 of our newsletters. Learn more

$14 monthly or $100 annually ($8.33/month)
OR

Continue reading this article for free

All news, events, memos, reports, and analysis, and access all 10 of our newsletters. Learn more.

By signing up, you agree to Al-Monitor’s Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. Already have an account? Log in