In Iraq, where more than a hundred people have been killed for a week, demonstrations and clashes have intensified in the Sadr region, known as Baghdad's impoverished sector. At least 15 people were killed in ongoing incidents in the area during the night, according to reports.
At least 105 people have been killed so far in demonstrations demanding the resignation of the government along with Prime Minister Abdel Mahdi, which they accuse of corruption.
The spill of clashes into Sadr territory represents a new challenge for security forces.
In this region, where nearly a third of Baghdad's population lives on narrow streets, lacking electricity, water, and jobs, it has historically not been easy to quell the uprisings.
Police were reportedly sent to the area, where the army announced it was withdrawing to ease the tension.
ILKHA