The security sources read out a memo from Abdul Mahdi to the commander of Iraq's elite Counter-Terrorism Service telling him to deploy his forces and "use all necessary measures" to end protests in Baghdad.
Meanwhile, hundreds of demonstrators continued their protests October 26 in Baghdad and some provinces in southern and central Iraq over deteriorated living conditions, leaving up to 63 people died and more than 2,500 others wounded.
The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) on October 26 expressed its deep concern over the "attempts of armed entities to hinder the stability of Iraq," and strongly condemned the loss of life by latest protests over unemployment, corruption and lack of public services.
The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Iraq Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert "deeply regrets and condemns the further loss of life and injuries, and strongly denounces the destruction of public and private property," a UNAMI statement said.
She also expressed deep concern about armed entities seeking to hinder Iraq's stability and unity, saying "the protection of human life always comes first. Armed entities sabotaging the peaceful demonstrations, eroding the government's credibility and ability to act, cannot be tolerated," the statement quoted Hennis-Plasschaert as saying.
She said that the UNAMI welcomed that the security forces provided assistance to injured demonstrators and ensured the free movement of medical units, the statement said.
The top UN envoy to Iraq reiterated that implementing the measures, announced by the government in recent weeks, will take time, stressing that a constructive dialogue would be in the interest of all Iraqis, she said.
"I also call upon all political leaders to set an example through action," she added.
