Over the weekend, Iraqis took to the streets in protest of frequent power cuts during scorching summer days. Demonstrations erupted in cities like Diwaniyah and Najaf, with activists burning tires and clashes with police. Locals in Diwaniyah complained of unfair distribution of power, leading to protests on Sunday.
Ammar al-Khazaaly, an activist in Diwaniyah, reported ongoing protests despite security forces repressing them with tear gas and live bullets. The demonstrations, though smaller than past ones, drew attention to deteriorating services and power outages.
With footage showing chanting protestors, the unrest reflects deep-seated frustrations with corruption and infrastructure challenges in Iraq. The country’s struggle with power cuts has become routine during summers, impacting daily life profoundly.
As Iraq faces climate change and potential uninhabitable regions, demands for infrastructure investment rise. Despite past protests facing violent crackdowns, ongoing demonstrations suggest continued discontent and the need for systemic change.