Video: Death toll in Baghdad reaches 20; over 300 injured as situation worsens in Iraq

The death toll from armed clashes in the "Green Zone" of Iraq's capital has reached 20, with more than 300 individuals hospitalized, according to Al Jazeera.

Despite a curfew, the situation in Baghdad remains tense, the broadcaster reports.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for de-escalation in Iraq. His spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, stated to Al Jazeera, "The Secretary-General is following the continuing protests in Iraq with concern, noting that demonstrators have entered government buildings. He is particularly worried about reports of loss of life." Dujarric added that Guterres has called for "calm and restraint, as well as to prevent any violence."

On August 29, Shia activist Muqtada al-Sadr announced on social media the complete cessation of his political activities, attributing it to a "political deadlock." His supporters subsequently stormed the Republican Palace, which houses the Iraqi government and the Prime Minister's office.

Units of the Iraqi army, as well as paramilitary formations from Saraya al-Salam, have arrived in Baghdad. Explosions and gunfire were heard in the city center, and the U.S. embassy located in the "Green Zone" came under mortar fire.

During the clashes, two Iraqi soldiers were killed, and the chief of the federal police headquarters was injured.

Protests in Baghdad have been ongoing since the end of July. On July 30, demonstrators also stormed the "Green Zone" of the city, where government offices and several foreign embassies are located. According to the Ministry of Health, 100 protesters and 25 security personnel were injured during the unrest.

The protesters opposed the candidacy of Mohammed al-Sudani, a representative of the Coordination Framework (a local alliance of Shia parties) and a key rival of Muqtada al-Sadr for the position of Prime Minister.

This alliance gained a majority of votes in the elections of October 2021, but has been unable to form a government. Negotiations over the creation of a new cabinet have reached an impasse due to disagreements between Shia and Kurdish factions.