Live ammunition, tear gas and water canons are being used indiscriminately by Iraqi government security personnel against protesters in Baghdad and surrounding cities. Internet access has been cut off across much of the region with connectivity falling below 70% and social media being blocked. 

The death toll from three days of mass anti-government protests in Iraq has risen to 20, with hundreds more wounded including children. The protesters are speaking out against unemployment and widespread government corruption. They demand fairness and essential services such as electricity supply and improvements to education and health services.

These are simple, fair demands of their government yet it has been met with excessive use of force by the Iraqi Government.

We call upon the UK Government to condemn the Iraqi Government's treatment of their people and provide tangible support to the Iraqi people. 

We stand in solidarity with our Iraqi brothers and sisters as they strive for fairness in their country.