Iraq in turmoil as 45 shot dead by security forces in protests

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Deaths follow torching of Iran’s consulate in a challenge to Tehran’s power and influence on its neighbour

Iraqi security forces have shot dead at least 45 protesters after demonstrators stormed and torched an Iranian consulate in Najaf, in what could mark a turning point in the uprising against the Tehran-backed authorities.

At least 29 people died in the southern city of Nassiriya when troops opened fire on demonstrators who blocked a bridge before dawn on Thursday and later gathered outside a police station. Police and medical sources said dozens of others were wounded.

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from The Guardian https://ift.tt/2XURV36

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