UN deeply regrets and condemns the further loss of life and injuries, and strongly denounces the destruction of public and private property during the latest waves of protests in Iraq, according to Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Iraq, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert. Hennis-Plasschaert warned that armed entities sabotaging the peaceful demonstrations, eroding the government’s credibility and ability to act, cannot be tolerated. “Iraq has come a long way, and cannot afford to slide back into a new cycle of violence.” The Special Representative also addressed restrictions on social media which remained in place and the internet access intermittent. The Special Representative urged all parties to redouble their efforts on the ground to not only prevent provocations and unnecessary confrontations, but also to collectively stand against armed spoilers. She noted that implementing the measures recently announced by the government will take time, reiterating that a constructive dialogue on the way forward is in the interest of all. The United Nations stand ready to assist, including by supporting the Iraqi authorities in their efforts to address legitimate demands for change: accountability and transparency, an end to corruption, improved public services, strengthened governance, and an environment that is conducive to growth and employment, announced Hennis-Plasschaert. “I also call upon all (political) leaders to set an example through action. Calls for an end to corruption, for instance, should be accompanied by the closure of the so-called economic committees of their parties or movements.”