2019 Photo Shared as Recent Protests in Iraq
The Claim
A photo depicts protesters shutting down the Rumaila oil field in the Basra province of Iraq to protest unemployment.
News posted on
Emerging story
A photo purportedly showing demonstrators closing down the Rumaila oil field in Iraq's Basra province to protest unemployment and demand job opportunities in oil companies has recently circulated among news websites and social media users across the MENA region.
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar investigated the claim and found it to be misleading. The photo was taken in November 2019, when protestors blocked roads to oil fields and vital installations in Basra, Iraq's southernmost city.
2019 Protests in Iraq
In November 2019, protests against government policies and living conditions erupted in Iraqi provinces. During these protests, protesters blocked roads to oil fields and ports to put pressure on the government by obstructing vital facilities and reducing economic revenues, which later demanded the government's fall.
According to news outlets, protests erupted in October 2019 in response to deteriorating living conditions, resulting in clashes with Iraqi Security Forces that killed hundreds and injured thousands.
June 2022 Protests in Iraq
This claim emerged given recent demonstrations in Iraq, which began in Basra and involved protestors blocking roads and burning tires in order to put pressure on the government to provide job opportunities in oil companies.
Translated by Rend Beiruti
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