At least 15 people were killed as clashes between Iraqi security forces and supporters of a powerful Shiite cleric continued overnight in Baghdad.
Officials say dozens more were injured after protesters loyal to Muqtada al-Sadr stormed the presidential palace.
The violence erupted after Sadr announced his retirement from politics. Iraq’s interim prime minister has called for calm and the military has declared a nationwide curfew after unrest in several other cities.
Street fighting broke out overnight as fighters exchanged gunfire – in some of the worst violence to hit the Iraqi capital in years.
Much of the fighting is centered around the city’s Green Zone, an area that houses government buildings and foreign embassies.
Dutch embassy staff were forced to move to the German mission because of the clashes.
Security officials said some of the violence was between the Peace Brigades, a militia loyal to Sadr, and members of the Iraqi army.
