The Heat: Iraq’s current challenges

The Heat

Protesters wave national flags as they chant slogans and carry banners against the Iraqi Supreme Court’s top judge, Midhat al-Mahmoud, during a demonstration near the heavily fortified Green Zone, in Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, Aug. 31, 2015. Banners in Arabic read, “we must reform the judiciary,” “Midhat al-Mahmoud you destroyed the country,” and “The corrupt must be held accountable.” (AP Photo/Khalid Mohammed)

Despite promises of reforms from Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, protests across Iraq continue to grow. Will they lead to more shakeups in the country’s government?

Calls against corruption and demands for a better quality of life echo through the streets of Baghdad and beyond. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi responded swiftly, outlining proposals to reduce corruption, improve the economy and enhance national security. But Iraqis are still taking to the streets.

CCTV’s Wisam al Bayati reported from Baghdad.

To discuss the current political climate in Iraq:

  • Samir Sumaida’ie served as Iraqi ambassador to the U.S. from 2006 to 2011.

To discuss the threat of ISIL to Iraqi national security:

  • Dr. Mowaffak Al-Rubaie is a former Iraqi National Security Adviser.

To discuss the protesters’ perspective and demands: