Angered Protesters In Basra Torch Iranian Consulate - Miranda Farrar

Basra, Iraq, is one of the most oil-rich cities in the world, but it doesn't look it. Thousands of locals are living in poverty, and many are getting sick from contaminated water. In addition, unemployment rates are extremely high, and air conditioning is being cut off in weather conditions of above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. It seems unlikely that such a rich city could be in so much poverty, but the cause is corruption and politicians' lack of ability to form a coalition government. Demanding change, protestors set fire to the Iranian consulate on Friday. Government headquarters and offices have been burned, and ports and roadways have been blocked. In addition, the protestors held two Iraqi workers hostage outside of the city. At least 10 protestors died, and investigations of the protests have been issued. The U.S. Consulate in Basra has said that it would support the government in making reforms and creating better living conditions.

This article was written on September 7, but it is still highly relevant, and it is a pressing matter that needs to be taken care of. In addition, a more recent article says that at least 15 people have died. This article, although taking place in a different country, actually has strong connections to the United States. First, protestors fired rockets at the Basra international airport, which is very close to the U.S. Consulate. In addition, the U.S. Consulate called on the Iraqi government about investigations and assisting with reforms. Lastly, this unrest is growing as President Trump pressures Iran by getting money from their oil. This article isn't directly related to the United States, but it highlights the causes and effects of events in other countries and how the world is connected. Like these protests, the New York Slave Revolt of 1712 emphasizes the results of inhumane treatment of people. In both of these instances, those who were not receiving basic human needs rose up against their oppressors to try to make a change, and both times, set fire to buildings. The main reason this article was written was to educate citizens, but especially governments, not to value money over human lives.

https://www.npr.org/2018/09/07/645620765/angered-protesters-in-basra-torch-iranian-consulate