15 Killed in Clashes Between Shia Supporters and Iraqi Forces

At least 15 people have been killed in clashes between Iraqi security forces and supporters of a powerful Shia cleric in the capital, Baghdad.

Officials say dozens more were injured after protesters loyal to Moqtada Al-Sadr stormed the presidential palace.

The violence began after Al-Sadr announced his retirement from politics.

Al-Sadr’s bloc won most seats in parliament last October, but he has refused to negotiate with Iran-backed Shia groups to form a government and there has been a year of political instability as a result.

Street fighting erupted overnight, as fighters exchanged gunfire and tracer rounds illuminated the night sky in some of the worst violence to hit the Iraqi capital in recent years.