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Iraqi PM orders curfew lift in Baghdad amidst protest

Iraq Protests

Iraq Protests

Iraq has been stalled by protests against the government for days. Protesters have come out against the government for its failure to curb corruption, unemployment and the failing public services in the country.

The war-torn country had restored democracy after the US-led invasion of Iraq had successfully ousted then-president Saddam Hussain. It had been embroiled in a civil war from 2014 to 2017, which saw ISIS gain control of many territories in Iraq which were then taken back by the Iraqi armed forces.

Baghdad has been witness to a violent squash of the protests where security forces have used water cannons, tear gas and live rounds. Many protesters have been killed while hundreds have been injured.

According to an article in Al Jazeera, tensions have increased in the country since there has been a mass internet blackout. A measure which has been done to prevent any communication between the protesters and stop them from posting any footage related to the protests.

The government which was forced to place the city under curfew in order to control the protests. On Friday, the government decided to lift the curfew  According to an article in The Statesman, the protests which started on Tuesday saw the death toll rise to 41. The death toll included the deaths of three security personnel and 38 civilians injuring 1,952 people which included 363 security members.

Iraq had declared victory over the Islamic State in 2017 but has failed to rebuild the lost infrastructure in the country and elevate the deplorable standard of living. According to the protesters, the failure of the government to deal with the issues have stood as evidence of the growing corruption in the government.

(Inputs from agencies)

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