Iraq places curfew in Najaf, as violent protests resume across country

BAGHDAD, July 13 (KUNA) -- Iraqi authorities on Friday imposed a curfew in Najaf shortly after regaining control of the southern city's airport from violent protesters calling for better public services and more jobs.
The decision, which has been taken "until further notice," a police source told KUNA, came as protesters in the capital, Baghdad, were warned against direct confrontations with police and causing damage to public property.
Police in the province of Dhi Qar, some 350km south of Baghdad, said 36 officers were injured after protesters hurled rocks at them.
In Iraq's main port city and economic capital of Basra, where the demonstrations initially started a few days ago, protesters blocked a major road leading into the city, while others across the country have caused damage to public buildings.
Activists on social media posted videos of protesters breaking into political party offices and setting them ablaze. (end) ahh.sd