Iran to reopen consulate in Iraq’s Basra

By Amir Saadi

BAGHDAD

The Iranian Consulate in Basra, which was torched in recent mob violence, will reopen after repair work is completed, Tehran's ambassador to Iraq said on Tuesday.

Iraj Masjeidi said at a news conference that the unfortunate incident will not deter ties between the two "brotherly countries".

Last Friday, an angry mob torched the consulate in Basra as well as a number of government buildings amid growing unrest in the province over high unemployment and poor public services.

Since July 9, Iraq’s Shia-majority central and southern provinces -- especially Basra -- have been rocked by protests to demand better public services, more job opportunities and an end to government corruption.

At least 30 people have been killed and scores injured since the protests began.