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BASRA, Iraq (AP) – After a week of violent protests against unemployment and poor public services that have left at least 15 dead, a sense of calm has returned to the city of Basra in southern Iraq. .
Troops sent from Baghdad reinforced the police, and on Sunday government offices and markets reopened after a quiet night. Municipal workers cleaned the streets and took the debris out of the clashes.
The oil-rich region has been shaken by the most severe protests in years, with residents complaining of blackouts, dirty water and rising unemployment.
In recent days, protesters have attacked government offices, political party seats and the Iranian consulate. Many criticize their neighbor for Iran's disproportionate influence on Iraqi politics and call for radical change.
