Deaths Mount as Supporters of Iraqi Cleric Storm Gov’t Palace After His Political Resignation
Deaths rise as clashes broke out between Iraqi police and his followers who stormed the government palace after Shi'ite Muslim cleric Muqtada al-Sadr declared his resignation from politics
Casualties continue rising as hundreds of followers of an influential Shi’ite cleric stormed Iraq’s government palace on Monday shortly after the cleric announced he was withdrawing from politics, further deepening an unprecedented political crisis.
Iraqi security forces used tear gas, gunfire, and physical force to push back against Muqtada al-Sadr’s followers who stormed the Republican Palace. Iraq’s military swiftly announced a city-wide curfew for civilians and vehicles on Monday to quell tensions and the possibility of clashes.
Al-Sadr’s protesters filled lavish waiting rooms in the palace, a key meeting place for Iraqi heads of state and foreign dignitaries, and chanted slogans in support of the cleric.
Medical officials said 12 protesters injured by tear gas and physical altercations with riot police were taken to the Ibn Sina hospital.
He criticized fellow Shi’ite political leaders for failing to heed his calls for reform. He did not elaborate on the closure of his offices, but said that some of his cultural and religious institutions would remain open.
Sadr withdrew his lawmakers from parliament in June after he failed to form a government of his choosing. A political impasse between him and Shi’ite rivals close to Iran has given Iraq its longest run without a government.
Supporters of Sadr have since the end of July occupied parliament and protested near government buildings, halting the process to choose a new president and prime minister.
Monday’s announcement raised fears that Sadr’s supporters might escalate their protests, fuelling a new phase of instability in Iraq.
By Reuters
