Story perspectives

Pro-Iran Protests Erupt as U.S. Strikes Escalate Conflict

3/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Pro-Iran protests erupted in Baghdad's Green Zone after U.S. airstrikes killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.
The U.S. military campaign aims to dismantle Iran's missiles and prevent nuclear development, and U.S. President Donald Trump says the operation could last weeks.
Iran has responded with missile strikes on targets, affecting oil exports and prices, while analysts warn the conflict could escalate as Iran seeks to impose costs on the U.S.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, marked by the fall of Baghdad on April 9, led to over 4,000 civilian casualties and significant regional instability. The Coalition Provisional Authority's de-Ba'athification policy fueled resentment, contributing to ongoing protests in Baghdad's Green Zone. This unrest reflects deep-seated anti-American sentiment and echoes the chaos that reshaped Middle Eastern geopolitics and oil markets post-invasion.

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Story summary

Pro-Iran protests erupted in Baghdad's Green Zone after U.S. airstrikes killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.
The U.S. military campaign aims to dismantle Iran's missiles and prevent nuclear development, and U.S. President Donald Trump says the operation could last weeks.
Iran has responded with missile strikes on targets, affecting oil exports and prices, while analysts warn the conflict could escalate as Iran seeks to impose costs on the U.S.

1 / 2