World
Updated: August 01, 2022

Threats Of Protest, Violence Cause Panic In Iraq

By Quadri Adejumo
August 01, 2022
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Iraqi security forces erected concrete barriers on Monday ahead of counterprotests planned by Shiite political rivals which many feared could escalate tensions.

The counter-protest was called for by the Coordination Framework, an alliance led by Shiite parties close to Iran.

The alliance instructed participants to gather around Baghdad's July 14th Bridge, which leads to the heavily fortified Green Zone where the parliament is housed.

The alliance also called for its supporters to respect the state security forces and carry Iraqi flags.

The Daily Sabah on Monday said the announcement came after al-Sadr issued a statement late Sunday calling for revolution and to change the political system and the constitution and abolish his rivals while encouraging Iraqi tribes to join him.

His opponents perceived that message as a call to a coup.