Iraqi forces killed at least two protesters in Baghdad’s Green ZoneMay 21, 2016 - 17:17 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Iraqi forces killed at least two people while trying to disperse protesters who broke into the fortified Green Zone area in central Baghdad, officials said Saturday, May 21, according to AFP. Security and medical officials also said at least 57 people were wounded in Friday's unrest, in which forces used tear gas, water cannons and sound bombs against protesters, some of whom threw rocks and other debris. Security forces also fired live rounds during the demonstration, mostly into the air, but officials said at least two protesters had died of bullet wounds. Protesters faced tough resistance from security forces on Friday, before some demonstrators managed to force a gate into the Green Zone, where Iraq's main government institutions are located, and stormed Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's office. It was the second time in two weeks that protesters were able to breach the Green Zone, AFP says. Last month, demonstrators faced little resistance when they entered the Green Zone and stormed parliament. They withdrew from the area the following day. Related links: Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | The Power of One Dram to benefit Road of Life charity The companies inform that the May beneficiary of The Power of One Dram is the “Road of Life” charitable organization. Ucom General Director gives lecture at French University in Armenia The General Director of Ucom Ralph Yirikian delivered a lecture at the French University of Armenia. Kazakhstan welcomes Yerevan, Baku’s agreement to meet in Almaty Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has welcomed the agreement of Baku and Yerevan to hold negotiations in Almaty. Armenia offers to temporarily host, preserve Gaza manuscripts The Armenian Foreign Minister has said Yerevan is ready to help preserve manuscripts from the conflict zone in Gaza. |