At Least 4 Killed in Baghdad Protests

Iraqi security forces shot tear gas canisters at anti-government demonstrators near the strategically significant Sinak and Ahrar bridges in the capital, Baghdad, on Thursday, killing at least four people and wounding at least 44, according to medical sources. The deaths were caused by tear gas canisters shot at close range, directly at the head. Some of the wounded were shot with live ammunition while others were injured by rubber bullets and tear gas canisters. The demonstrators are protesting against poor living conditions, the perception of widespread corruption in the government and among the country’s elites, and excessive Iranian influence on the country. More than 300 people have been killed since the protests swept across southern Iraq and Baghdad in early October.