Protesters
in Iraq have dealt a symbolic blow to US prestige by storming the American
embassy in Baghdad, trapping diplomats inside while chanting “Death to America”
and slogans in support of pro-Iranian militias.
In a
humiliating day for Washington, hundreds of demonstrators besieged the US
compound, at one point breaching the main gate and smashing their way into
several reception rooms. They lit fires, battered down doors, and lobbed bricks
at bulletproof glass.
The rampage
was carried out with the apparent connivance of Iraqi security forces who
allowed protesters inside the highly protected Green Zone. They made their way
to the embassy, climbing walls and hurling stones. US guards responded with
tear gas but did not open fire.
Donald
Trump accused Iran of orchestrating the day-long attack, which followed US
airstrikes on Sunday against three camps in Iraq and two in Syria. The bases
belonged to the Iran-backed Kata’ib Hezbollah militia group, which is formally
part of the Iraqi army. At least 25 fighters were killed and dozens
injured.
Sem comentários:
Enviar um comentário