At least 13 protesters were killed across Iraq on Sunday, as Iraqi security forces tried to tamp down growing unrest, and demonstrators were out in massive force, particularly in the south.
Seven of the protesters were killed in Basra, where security forces reported “one of the worst days” since protests began. Protesters tried to close the Umm Qasr port, but so far have not done so, with seven killed and 150 wounded.
Beyond Basra, four protesters were killed in Nassiriya, one killed in Najaf, and another killed in Diwaniyah. Basra was the only city with significant disruptions reported, for while the port remained open, several major streets were closed by tire fires.
The large number of casualties in Basra reflect the use of not just tear gas but also live fire. So far, large numbers of casualties have not had a substantial impact on future protests, with demonstrators remaining defiant in the face of violence.
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