This archive report was first published on 26 October 2019.
At least 150 people have been killed in the ongoing protests in Iraq's capital, Baghdad, with most of the victims being protesters who died from gunshot wounds to the head or chest.
Protests first erupted on October 1, with demonstrators demanding an end to corruption and unemployment. The movement has since escalated to calls for a complete overhaul of the political system.
Despite the government's pledge to implement reforms, including hiring drives, increased pensions, and a cabinet reshuffle, protesters remain unimpressed. In fact, they have called for a resumption of nationwide demonstrations on October 25.
Parliament speaker Mohammed al-Halbusi visited protesters overnight in Tahrir Square, but many demonstrators have shunned the participation of mainstream politicians, whom they see as trying to co-opt their movement.
On Saturday morning, demonstrators attempted to reach the high-security Green Zone, where parliament is scheduled to discuss protesters' demands, cabinet decisions, and the implementation of reforms later in the day.
Security forces fired tear gas to force protesters away from Tahrir Square and the adjacent Al-Jumhuriya bridge, which leads to the Green Zone.
