Clashes in Baghdad as pro-Iran protestors try to reach US Embassy building

BAGHDAD — Iraqi security forces dispersed pro-Iran protesters with tear gas Sunday evening after crowds made a second attempt to breach the Green Zone and reach the U.S. Embassy, as some demonstrators vowed to storm the building.

Video footage showed clashes between protesters and security forces blocking access to the Green Zone. Other videos circulating online captured the sound of live ammunition fired near the bridge as protesters advanced. The protest was ongoing as of the time of writing.

The U.S. Embassy had warned earlier Sunday that demonstrations near its compound “may turn violent.” The Spain Embassy also alerted its citizens before the protests began, warning in a WhatsApp message that “after Iftar, a new march is being prepared against the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad,” and advising them to avoid the Green Zone and the 14th of July Bridge area.

The evening demonstration follows a morning attempt at the same location, when security forces dispersed crowds with tear gas and water cannons. Accounts linked to Iran-aligned armed factions had called for a fresh march on the embassy Sunday evening following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

AFP contributed to this report.