Curfew imposed in wake of Sadrist riots

Iraqi authorities imposed a curfew in Baghdad from 3:30 pm local time today, August 29. The curfew is an attempt to contain protests started by Sadrist movement supporters just hours after Muqtada al-Sadr announced his retirement from politics and closure of al-Sadr-affiliated institutions. Thousands of Sadrists stormed the Green Zone in central Baghdad as they overturned concrete barriers surrounding the Republican Palace and Grand Festivities Square. Pictures and videos showed many protesters in rooms and courtyards of the Republican Palace. Security forces swarmed the city center to prevent more protesters from reaching the Green Zone. The Joint Operations Command called on protesters to withdraw immediately from the area and to exercise utmost restraint to avoid clashes and bloodshed. The command stated that its security forces are committed to their responsibility to protect government institutions, diplomatic missions, and public and private properties. Informed observers believe Al-Sadr’s retirement means he has closed the door to bring him and his rival Coordination Framework closer to reconciliation with the existing political structures. It also undermines all previous initiatives put forward in the past, including the national dialogue launched by Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kazemi.