Protests in Najaf Over Poor Services as Government Officials Address Demands in Al-Mishkhab
Tires burned
Nighttime protests erupt in Najaf’s Al-Nidaa neighborhood over failing services
NAJAF – Dozens of residents in Al-Nidaa neighborhood, north of Najaf, staged late-night demonstrations on Friday by setting tires ablaze in protest against worsening public services. They warned of escalating action if authorities do not address their demands, which include road paving, reliable water and electricity supplies, and better school facilities.
“Residents of Al-Nidaa neighborhood took to the streets today to express their anger over poor services, just as protests took place in Al-Mishkhab,” said protester Mohammad Rajeh.
Demonstrators claimed they have endured years of empty promises with no real implementation. They vowed to continue protesting until local officials respond effectively.
The spark for these demonstrations came from similar unrest in Al-Mishkhab, where residents held four days of protests beginning January 25, 2025, over a lack of basic services. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s adviser, Ihsan al-Shibli, traveled to Al-Mishkhab to meet with local officials and representatives of the protesters.
“I received a call last night from the prime minister, instructing me to visit Al-Mishkhab, assess the situation, and listen to citizens’ demands,” al-Shibli told 964 media. “The prime minister has personally pledged to follow up, and we are now conducting inspections across various areas to determine their needs.”
He added, “The demands before us are legitimate service-related requests. Once we complete the assessment, we will present them to the prime minister for directives on their implementation.”
Iyad al-Zurfi, acting mayor of Al-Mishkhab, noted, “It’s no secret that Al-Mishkhab has seen protests driven by rightful demands from activists, citizens, and local media. Some concerns fall under the local government’s responsibility, while others are under federal jurisdiction. The governor and council members have been actively engaged in addressing them.”