BAGHDAD — On Friday, a significant number of protesters gathered in the Iraqi city of Nasiriyah, calling for the release of activists who had been arrested during previous demonstrations. Tensions escalated as clashes erupted between the demonstrators and security forces.

Located in the southern province of Dhi Qar, Nasiriyah has often been a hotspot for anti-government protests. The recent demonstrations mark the fifth anniversary of the widespread anti-government protests that began in the capital and spread to southern provinces, which were aimed at enacting reforms.

Protesters emphasized the need for the release of detained activists who had engaged in demonstrations in October 2019, as well as in more recent actions. They condemned the legal actions against these individuals as a form of “retaliation,” and demanded the resignation of the local police chief. Several Iraqi lawmakers who backed the protest movement were also present at the gathering.

In an attempt to disperse the crowd, security forces deployed smoke bombs and established barricades with barbed wire on all routes leading to Al-Haboubi Square. An official from the Dhi Qar police, speaking anonymously, revealed that clashes resulted in injuries to 11 security personnel and nine protesters. However, a statement from the police command reported that 21 officers were injured, making no reference to the injured protesters.

In response to the day’s events, provincial council member Ahmed Al-Khafaji announced that an emergency session was held on Friday evening, resulting in several resolutions. He stated that the council agreed to stop the raids on activists’ homes and to allow them to resolve their legal issues with local police stations. Moreover, the council pledged to prohibit the use of live ammunition against demonstrators.

Between October and December 2019, Iraq experienced its most significant protest movement since the fall of Saddam Hussein in 2003, which led to the resignation of the government and the formulation of a new electoral law. Tragically, this movement saw hundreds of protesters lose their lives while thousands sustained injuries due to the violent responses from Iraqi security forces, which included the use of live ammunition and snipers, alongside numerous arrests.