Iraq: Response to Protests Killed Four
Iraqi security forces fired bullets and teargas canisters at peaceful protesters in Baghdad’s Green Zone on May 20, 2016, killing four people and wounding more than 100. Iraqi authorities should investigate the use of lethal force against the peaceful protesters. Twelve witnesses from among the protesters told Human Rights Watch that the protesters were unarmed […]Iraqi security forces fired bullets and teargas canisters at peaceful protesters in Baghdad’s Green Zone on May 20, 2016, killing four people and wounding more than 100. Iraqi authorities should investigate the use of lethal force against the peaceful protesters.
Twelve witnesses from among the protesters told Human Rights Watch that the protesters were unarmed and peaceful when security forces opened fire. Some threw teargas canisters back at security forces or threw rocks after security forces opened fire. Human Rights Watch reviewed footage and photos from the protests, and none showed protesters carrying arms.
“Security forces protecting the Green Zone had no legitimate reason to fire on protesters who presented no risk to their lives or others,” said Joe Stork, deputy Middle East director. “The government should urgently investigate the killings and order security forces not to use lethal force unless absolutely necessary to save lives.”
