ERBIL — People in Iraq’s southern province of Basra on Thursday resumed the early public protests to decry government’s failure in providing them with jobs and public services.

The protests had been suspended at the request of the organisers who hoped the government might take immediate actions and respond to their call.

Similar gatherings were resumed in Missan Province. Protesters reportedly attempted to block a road leading to Shayib border crossing before the security forces arrived in the area.

Iraqi southern provinces have been staging large-scale demonstrations over the past two weeks, calling for government’s action to improve their welfare.

Hundreds of civilians and security forces have so far been killed or injured.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq previously urged the government to respect the protester’s concerns. It also encouraged police to avoid clashing with the protesters.

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