At least two dead in Iraqi 'day of rage' protests

LONDON. February 25. KAZINFORM At least two people have been killed in anti-government demonstrations in Iraq as thousands take to the street in cities across the country; Kazinform refers to BBC News.

Inspired by protests in other countries such as Libya and Egypt, Iraqis are holding a "day of rage" against corruption and a lack of services.

Clashes in Hawija left at least two people dead. There were unconfirmed reports of deaths in other cities.

Large numbers have streamed into Baghdad's Liberation Square.

Crowds of protesters carrying flags and banners chanted anti-government slogans as security forces were deployed in large numbers.

Protesters were forced to walk to the rally site after a vehicle ban was imposed.

"We are here for change to improve the situation of the country. The education system is bad. The health system is also bad. Services are going from bad to worse," one protester, 27-year-old Lina Ali, told AFP; Kazinform cites BBC News.

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