A+ A-

Iraqi PM denies use of force amid nationwide protests

BAGHDAD, July 15 (KUNA) -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Al-Abadi said on Sunday that security forces have not resorted to the use of firearms in the face of growing demonstrations over poor services and a lack of job opportunities.
"I have instructed police not to use any weapons against unarmed protestors," state television cited Al-Abadi as saying.
The Iraqi prime minister said that he supported the right to peaceful protest but warned that any ensuing chaos could push the country into a downward spiral.
Earlier on Sunday, protestors set fire to offices of some political parties and burned down a local television station in Muthana province as unrest continues to sweep southern cities.
Elsewhere, at least 46 people have been wounded as a result of clashes between protestors and security forces in the city of Nasiriyah in Dhi Qar province, some 350km south of the capital Baghdad.
Tens of protesters were also injured when they attempted to storm the provincial government building in the oil hub city of Basra in the south, police said.
Meanwhile, internet access in Iraq has been drastically reduced, causing speculation that it may be an intended measure on the government's part to stifle the protests. (pickup previous) ahh.nam