Iraq: Death toll from ongoing protests climbs to 35

By Arif Yousef

BAGHDAD (AA) - At least 35 people have been killed since the beginning of anti-government protests across Iraq earlier this week, according to a medical source.

The source, who asked not to be named due to restrictions on speaking to the media, said the latest death toll since the eruption of protests stood at 35.

The Iraq High Commission for Human Rights said late on Thursday that at least 1,177 people have been injured over the last three days.

In a recent development, a civil activist told Anadolu Agency that the Iraqi Police opened fire on Friday at protesters who were trying to break the curfew in Baghdad.

Protesters have been demanding improvement in living conditions and an end to corruption. Security forces have opened fire on protesters to disperse them, causing mass casualties.

Protesters and civil activists interviewed by Anadolu Agency said the government had partially suspended internet services in the country.

On Thursday, Iraqi authorities imposed an indefinite curfew in Baghdad in a bid to quell the protests.

Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said the curfew will maintain public order and protect protesters from "infiltrators".

He added the armed forces will allow movement for humanitarian cases and travelers to and from Baghdad Airport.

Meanwhile, Iraqi authorities announced curfew in Dhi Qar, Maysan, Najaf and Babil provinces as well.

Parliament Speaker Mohamed al-Halbousi called on representatives of the protesters for talks at the assembly to discuss their demands, according to the official Iraqi News Agency.