Engineering and Petroleum Graduates Continue Protest in Basra

BASRA, Iraq — Graduates in engineering, petroleum specialties, and science continued a sit-in protest in front of the Basra Oil Company on Monday, marking the second day of the demonstration. The protesters began their action on Sunday by blocking all "Zukura" gates of the company. They are demanding the initiation of ministry contracts based on the federal financial management law for those who have graduated in petroleum-related fields. Hasan al-Shawi, speaking on behalf of the graduates, stated that they submitted their demands to the Minister of Oil three weeks ago but have received no response. Al-Shawi also alleged that company employees have continued to harass the civilian protesters. Footage circulating on social media reportedly shows a Basra Oil Company employee attacking female protesters.