Iraq: Fighting breaks out between demonstrators and security forces at Sunni protest site

BAGHDAD – Officials in Iraq say clashes have erupted between demonstrators and security forces in a northern Sunni town, leading to multiple casualties.

Sheikh Abdullah Sami al-Asi, a Sunni provincial official from Hawija, said the fighting began early Tuesday morning when security forces entered the protest area and tried to make arrests.

He says scores of people have been wounded or killed. Hawija is 240 kilometres (160 miles) north of Baghdad.

A United Nations spokeswoman in Iraq, Eliana Nabaa, confirmed that there are multiple casualties. She urged both sides to immediately lay down their weapons.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles