Iraq bans protests nationwide ahead of Arab League summit in Baghdad

BAGHDAD – Iraq’s Ministry of Interior announced a complete ban on protests from May 11 to May 20 as part of heightened security measures ahead of the Arab League Summit in Baghdad, warning that “any attempt to demonstrate will be considered a violation of the law.”

In a statement released Saturday, the ministry said, “No demonstrations will be allowed, regardless of the reasons—be they service-related or otherwise,” emphasizing that security forces have been ordered to arrest anyone attempting to protest and “will take all necessary legal measures” against those who disrupt operations.

The 34th regular Arab Summit is scheduled for May 17 in Baghdad.

Statement from Iraq’s Ministry of Interior:

From the moment the date for the Arab League Summit in Baghdad was announced, Iraqi security forces began implementing measures to secure this important event, which will reflect the true image of this generous country in all aspects. As the summit approaches, security forces have intensified their preparations to ensure its success, mobilizing all available resources to receive Iraq’s guests.

Accordingly, the Iraqi Ministry of Interior affirms that no demonstrations will be allowed, regardless of the reasons—be they service-related or otherwise. No permits for protests will be issued, and any attempt to demonstrate will be considered a violation of the law. Orders have been issued to arrest anyone attempting to protest from May 11 until May 20.

The ministry also confirms that security forces will take all necessary legal measures against any demonstrator who attempts to distract them from their assigned duties during this period.