Iraqi forces killed at least two protesters in Baghdad’s Green ZoneMay 21, 2016 - 17:17 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Iraqi forces killed at least two people while trying to disperse protesters who broke into the fortified Green Zone area in central Baghdad, officials said Saturday, May 21, according to AFP. Security and medical officials also said at least 57 people were wounded in Friday's unrest, in which forces used tear gas, water cannons and sound bombs against protesters, some of whom threw rocks and other debris. Security forces also fired live rounds during the demonstration, mostly into the air, but officials said at least two protesters had died of bullet wounds. Protesters faced tough resistance from security forces on Friday, before some demonstrators managed to force a gate into the Green Zone, where Iraq's main government institutions are located, and stormed Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's office. It was the second time in two weeks that protesters were able to breach the Green Zone, AFP says. Last month, demonstrators faced little resistance when they entered the Green Zone and stormed parliament. They withdrew from the area the following day. Related links: Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Czech-Armenian military cooperation discussed in Yerevan A delegation led by the Director General for the Industrial Cooperation Division of the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic visited Armenia. U.S. welcomes efforts to define Armenia-Azerbaijan border The United States welcomes efforts to define the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan, says Vedant Patel. Biden honors resilience of Armenian people on April 24 U.S. President Joe Biden has issued a statement on the 109th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Ex-Karabakh leader moved to solitary confinement cell in Baku, his son says David Vardanyan is the son of former Karabakh leader Ruben Vardanyan who who is currently imprisoned in Azerbaijan. |