US urges Iraq to probe 'abhorrent' protester killings

Middle East diplomat condemns 'excessive force' in flashpoint city of Nasiriyah

Last updated: December 03, 2019 | 04:00

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Iraqi mourners carry the coffin of an anti-government protester who was killed in Nasiriyah during clashes between anti-government protesters and security forces.

AFP

Washington: The United States on Monday urged Iraq to probe the “abhorrent” killing of protesters, condemning what it called excessive force in the flashpoint southern city of Nasiriyah.

“The use of excessive force over the weekend in Nasiriyah was shocking and abhorrent,” said David Schenker, the top US diplomat in charge of the Middle East.

“We call on the government of Iraq to investigate and hold accountable those who attempt to brutally silence peaceful protesters,” he said.