15 killed in Iraq as anti-government protests continue

At least 15 protesters were killed and 67 injured in clashes with security forces in Iraq on Saturday.

Thousands took part in nationwide protests on Saturday, and security forces fired tear gas at demonstrators who tried to reach Baghdad's Green Zone, home to government offices and embassies.

Al Jazeera's Natasha Ghoneim, reporting from Baghdad, said the mood in the city was tense with heavy security forces deployed around the Iraqi capital.

"People here are furious. Some are trying to storm barricades leading to the Green Zone, where government offices and the parliament building are located," she said.

"They want the government to go. Security forces are using lots of tear gas and stun grenades."
The rallies have mainly been by young, unemployed men who are protesting against the government and demanding jobs and better services.

Source: Agencies

Dhaka/Mukul