In a recent report, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has strongly criticized the Iraqi security forces for their violent response to protests in the disputed Kurdish city of Kirkuk. The incident resulted in the deaths of at least four Kurdish protesters, with 16 others sustaining injuries.

Witnesses cited in the HRW report stated that the security forces opened fire abruptly and without any prior warning. The trigger for this response may have been protesters allegedly throwing rocks at the security forces' vehicles. The report, released on Friday, sheds light on the grave consequences of such actions by the Iraqi security forces.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has initiated an inquiry into the incident, but HRW insists that this investigation must be conducted with independence and impartiality. The allegations of excessive and deadly force used by Iraqi security forces against the protesters must be thoroughly examined.

Sarah Sanbar, an Iraq researcher at Human Rights Watch, expressed deep concern over the recurring use of lethal force against protesters in the country. She emphasized that the Iraqi government must take concrete measures to ensure accountability for such actions.

This incident comes in the wake of peaceful protests staged by Kurdish citizens in Kirkuk, who are demanding the reopening of the road connecting the city to Erbil. Supporters of the pro-Iran Hashd al-Shaabi militia had closed this vital route in response to the recent transfer of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) headquarters to the city.

The HRW report highlights the urgent need for the Iraqi government to address these issues and prevent further violence against protesters. The international community will be closely watching the outcome of the investigation into this tragic incident, as the world calls for accountability and justice for the victims in Kirkuk.