Counter-terror forces deployed in Baghdad

Iraq's elite Counter-Terrorism Service says it has deployed in the streets of Baghdad upon Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi's orders to protect important state buildings while security forces are busy with protests.

"Counter-Terrorism Service forces have been deployed in some areas of Baghdad to protect state buildings from undisciplined elements taking advantage of security forces being busy with protecting protests and protesters," it said in a statement on Sunday.

Two security sources had told Reuters on Saturday that the elite counter-terrorism forces had been deployed in Baghdad and had been told to "use all necessary measures" to end ongoing protests against Mahdi's government.

Protesters gathered across Iraq on Saturday in a second day of anti-government protests, in which at least 65 people have died.