Wounded security personnel in Diyala protest over land distribution

BAQUBAH, Iraq — Wounded members of Iraq's security forces staged a protest outside the provincial council building in Baqubah, the capital of Diyala province, demanding the allocation of land plots designated for them. The protesters' representative, Khalil al-Shammari, said the demonstration was held to press for the delivery of land rights in the Nahri al-Sheikh area. He told reporters that they had staged several previous protests but had received no response from the relevant authorities. Al-Shammari said the latest action was prompted by information that the provincial council had formed a committee to re-examine the land distribution file. The wounded personnel argued that the review should fall under the responsibility of the municipality and local administration, and demanded that council members refrain from interfering in land allocation. They also voiced concern that irregularities could occur and that individuals without legitimate claims could be added to beneficiary lists. Al-Shammari warned that further protests would be organized if their demands continue to be ignored.