Baghdad contract workers protest outside Leather Company over delayed wages

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Dozens of contract workers gathered outside the Leather Company in Baghdad's central Karkh district on Friday to demand payment of wages they say have been delayed for roughly two years. The workers called on authorities to resolve the issue and clear the outstanding dues they say are owed to them under their contracts. The protesters said the unpaid entitlements have made it difficult to cover basic living costs for their families and urged the company and relevant officials to act quickly. They demanded the immediate release of accumulated payments and the fulfillment of contractual obligations. No company or government response was immediately reported. It was unclear when the disputed payments might be settled or whether further demonstrations were planned.