Baghdad Violence Continues as Seven Killed on Saturday

The month-long violent protests against the Iraqi government continued as seven demonstrators died of gunshot wounds on Saturday. Protesters are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Mahdi and an end to the so-called “elite.” Scores of others were wounded as police forced demonstrators from the bridges over the Tigris River and away from the areas where government offices and foreign diplomatic missions are located. Security forces reportedly used tear gas and sound grenades in addition to live fire. The unrest is fomented by youth who see little opportunity to further their status because all such opportunity goes to the elite. Almost 300 people have been killed since the demonstrations broke out on October 1.