UN "concerned" about the situation in Basra and Iraq is conducting an "investigation"

by **RamblerNash** Tue Sep 11, 2018 11:49 pm

UN "concerned" about the situation in Basra and Iraq is conducting an "investigation"

Twilight News

10 hours ago

The United Nations Office for Human Rights has expressed concern about the situation in the southern province of Basra, which witnessed demonstrations in recent weeks in protest against the lack of basic services, electricity and water shortages, pollution and unemployment.

Raveena Shamdasani, a spokeswoman for the office, said the protests had escalated over the past week after the contamination of drinking water supplies was discovered.

"According to the Ministry of Health, at least 11 people have been killed in connection with the protests, bringing the number of people killed since the beginning of the demonstrations on July 8 to at least 20, and more than 300 injured in Basra, 52 of the security forces, we urge the relevant authorities to investigate all deaths and injuries associated with the protests and hold those responsible accountable. "

Of the reported incidents, at least five demonstrators were reported dead and 41 injured on 4 September when unknown persons threw grenades at demonstrators in the city of Basra.

On the seventh of this month, demonstrators set fire to the building of the province for the third time, which led to the total destruction, in addition to a large number of other buildings.

The Human Rights Office called on the Iraqi state to listen to the grievances of the demonstrators and to fully respect their economic and social rights and the rule of law.

Hundreds of demonstrators have reportedly been arrested since July, many of them later released.

A spokeswoman for the Human Rights Office urged the authorities to immediately release any person arbitrarily arrested, especially those who were demonstrating peacefully, and stressed the right of individuals to peaceful assembly, party formation and freedom of expression.

http://www.shafaaq.com/ar/Ar_NewsReader/28b40364-ecac-4c99-a047-9bbfc5a91254