At least 6 killed in clashes in Iraq

BAGHDAD

At least six people were killed Wednesday in Iraq when supporters of Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr allegedly opened fire on those demonstrating against the appointment of Mohammed Tawfiq Allawi as prime minister.

More than 40 protesters were injured when the Iraqi cleric’s supporters, also known as blue hats, tried to enter Sadrain Square in Al-Najaf province and opened fire on protesters, according to witnesses.

Tents set up by protesters were also set on fire.

The blue hats later announced the square was under their control after protesters were moved out.

Meanwhile, in Babil, one person was killed after blue hats attacked protesters in the central Iraqi city.

Iraqi President Barham Salih appointed Allawi prime minister Saturday, assigning him to form a government within a month.

Iraq has been roiled by mass protests since early October over poor living conditions and corruption, forcing Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi to resign.

More than 500 people have been killed and 17,000 injured in protests, according to an Iraqi human rights commission.