Iraq’s security environment remains at a critical level. Tensions erupted after Shi’ite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr announced he was withdrawing from politics yesterday (Monday 29 August).
Reports indicated that there was civil unrest in multiple locations across the country after the announcement with demonstrators targeting provincial government buildings in several major cities.
Security forces used live fire to disperse protesters in Baghdad’s Green Zone during the late afternoon hours (local time). A nationwide curfew was imposed at 7pm local time on Monday 29 August.
Iraq’s Security Media Cell announced the lifting of the curfew in Baghdad and all other Iraqi provinces during the afternoon hours (local time) of August 30.
The announcement came after a statement by Muqtada al-Sadr calling on his supporters to immediately end protests and withdraw from Baghdad’s Green Zone.
Video footage shows a large number of pro-Sadr protesters currently dispersing from the Green Zone.
Clashes reported near Presidential Palaces Compound, Basrah, overnight hours, August 31-September 1
Please be advised:
- Emerging reports indicate that clashes have occurred near the Presidential Palaces Compound in Basrah as of the overnight hours (local time) on August 31-September 1.
- Further reports indicate that there were at least two casualties and security forces have been deployed in the vicinity of the area, as of writing.
Assessments:
- Security forces are likely to remain heavily deployed in the area over the coming hours to maintain law and order.
- Significant disruptions to travel and business continuity in the vicinity of the aforementioned location are likely over the coming hours.
Recommendations:
- Those operating or residing in Basrah over the coming hours on September 1 are advised to avoid nonessential travel to the vicinity of the aforementioned location due to the reported incident.
- Allot for disruptions to business continuity and travel in the area.
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