UPDATE - One killed, 200 injured in Baghdad anti-gov't protests

UPDATES WITH DETAILS, ADDS IN LEDE

BAGHDAD (AA) - One person was killed and 200 others were injured in anti-government protests in Iraqi capital Baghdad, according to a statement by Iraqi authorities.

The injured include 40 security personnel, said the statement.

"The capital Baghdad and a number of provinces witnessed protests demanding provision of public services and employment opportunities," the government said expressing its "regret for the violence that took place within the protests".

An unspecified number of injured were discharged from hospital after treatment, while 50 others are receiving medical care, the statement added.

Local media outlets however reported that at least three people were killed by gunfire of Iraqi security and some 130 injured, most of whom were affected by tear gas shells.

Demonstrations erupted in Baghdad against the government led by Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi following calls by activists citing government's failure to improve the living standards of citizens and to implement its programs, according to eyewitnesses.

Protests took place also in a number of other provinces including Basra, Maysan, Dhi Qar and Al Diwaniyah.