Violence Intensifies in Iraq and Syria
Massive street demonstrations have continued in Iraqi cities this week, leading to several deaths and the burning of hundreds of cars and dozens of buildings. Economic activity in some cities has dramatically decreased and curfews were in effect in most of Iraq’s large cities. The protesters are demanding snap elections and other reforms, while the regime has labelled them “terrorists” whose aim is the illegitimate toppling of the regime. Meanwhile, in Syria, forces loyal to the Assad regime, supported by Iranian-backed militias and Russia air power, has made progress in their offensive against the last rebel forces holed up in the northwestern province of Idlib.
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