Unknown attackers kill female activist in southern Iraq

By Amer al-Hassani

BAGHDAD

A human rights activist was killed Tuesday by unidentified gunmen in Iraq’s southern Basra province, according to a local police source.

“Unknown gunmen in a civilian vehicle opened fire on rights activist Soad al-Ali, who was in her car, in the center of Basra city,” Police First Lieutenant Rafed al-Nawras told Anadolu Agency.

“Al-Ali was killed instantly after being shot in the head and chest, while her driver was injured,” the police officer said.

In recent months, al-Ali had been organizing demonstrations in Basra to protest deteriorating public services and chronically high unemployment rates.

Since early July, Iraq’s Shia-majority southern and central provinces -- especially Basra -- have been rocked by protests, which at one point spread to capital Baghdad.

Demonstrators demand improved public utilities, especially water and electricity; more employment opportunities; and an end to alleged government corruption.