Thousands Rally in Iraq Against US-Israel War on Iran

Tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets across Iraq on Saturday, rallying against the ongoing United States and Israel military actions against Iran. The demonstrations were largely led by supporters of influential Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr.

In Baghdad’s Tahrir Square, massive crowds gathered waving Iraqi flags and chanting slogans such as “No to Israel” and “No to America.” Protesters expressed strong opposition to what they described as unjustified aggression and interference in regional affairs.

Many demonstrators labeled the conflict as unnecessary and harmful to civilians. One protester said the war was not a conventional military conflict but a “senseless war” causing widespread suffering. Others called on the international community to take a united stand against what they view as escalating violence in the Middle East.

The protests come amid rising regional tensions, with Iraq increasingly affected by spillover from the conflict, including attacks targeting both US interests and Iran-aligned groups within its borders.

Muqtada al-Sadr had earlier called for peaceful demonstrations to condemn what he described as “Zionist-American aggression” and to advocate for peace across the region. His calls were widely followed, reflecting his significant influence among Iraq’s Shia population.

Under Baghdad’s Freedom Monument, demonstrators voiced concerns over foreign involvement in regional affairs, urging global action to stop the الحرب and restore stability.

The ongoing conflict has already resulted in thousands of casualties across the region, intensifying fears of a broader escalation. Despite the rising tensions, protest leaders emphasized peaceful expression and unity in their opposition.