In Iraq, an anti-establishment movement has prevailed over violent attempts to crush demonstrations since October, when anti-government protests broke out calling for jobs, government services and an end to extreme poverty. This movement has the support of activists throughout the country.
Since Iraqi Shi’ite Cleric Muqtada al-Sadr withdrew his support for anti-government protests last week, security forces and protesters have been clashing daily across southern Iraq. The clashes are the latest escalation in a spate of protests over poverty, unemployment, corruption and foreign intervention
Protests in Iraq continue despite recent violence and deepening divides following an exchange of attacks between the United States and Iran inside Iraqi territory earlier this month. On Friday, mass demonstrations are expected against U.S. military involvement in Iraq, as well as for the basic rights protesters have been demanding for months