Internet access cut off in much of Iraq: Reports

Internet access cut off in much of Iraq: Reports
November 5, 2019, 11:13 am

Iraqi demonstrators carry Iraqi flags as they walk at a cloud of smoke during ongoing anti-government protests, in Baghdad, Iraq November 3, 2019. (Reuters)

Internet access in the capital Baghdad and much of Iraq has been cut off, internet blockage observatory NetBlocks said late on Monday as the country experiences a wave of anti-government protests.

“At the time of writing, national connectivity has fallen below 19% of normal levels sending tens of millions of users offline across Baghdad, also impacting Basra, Karbala and other population centers. The new disruption is believed to be the most severe observed in Iraq to date,” NetBlocks said in a statement.

Iraqi authorities have previously blocked off internet access in the face of protests.

Iraqi security forces killed at least five people when they opened fire on protesters in Baghdad on Monday, a Reuters witness said, as thousands took part in the largest wave of anti-government protests for decades.

source:Reuters

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