Medical workers stage protest near Baghdad Health Ministry, block road

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Medical workers gathered near the Health Ministry in central Baghdad on Wednesday, blocking a road and prompting security forces to deploy in the area, according to local reports. The protesters said sound grenades were used by security personnel during the demonstration. The protest focused on working conditions and employment rights, with participants saying their demands had not been addressed. Access to the Health Ministry building was disrupted for a period as demonstrators blocked the roadway, with the crowd growing during the morning hours. Security forces took preventive measures in the surrounding area in response to the demonstration. The area has previously seen similar protests by health sector workers calling attention to grievances within the public health system. Authorities intervened to manage the situation, though no immediate statement was issued on the workers' demands. No further details were available on whether talks with ministry officials would follow.