Iraqi officials say five anti-government protesters have been killed by security forces in the holy city of Najaf, amid tension following the burning of an Iraian consulate, bringing the death toll to 40 over 24 hours.
Security and medical officials say five protesters were killed and 32 wounded late Thursday when security forces fired live rounds to repel them from setting alight a central mosque in Najaf.
At least 350 people have died since Oct. 1, when protesters took to the streets to decry corruption.