On 29 October 2019, reports began filtering in of a potential chemical weapons incident in Karbala, Iraq. Karbala had been the site of major anti-government protests for several days, with Iranian-backed security forces deploying tear gas (CS) in a lethal manner; direct shots to the unprotected heads of protesters. By employing less-lethal munitions in a lethal fashion, the authorities were skirting international attention whilst still sending a message to protesters, and a horrific one at that. But on the 29th, that message grew more haunting.
After the first use in Karbala, which resulted in one death, there followed additional reports of a mysterious chemical weapon in Baghdad. On 31 October, video was released showing a young man suffering what appeared to be the signs of sarin or VX inhalation. The man, who later died, was one of a handful of victims brought to medical tents with similar signs, but they were not widespread. This means sarin or VX is unlikely, because it would most probably have impacted healthcare workers and others in the crowd. Again on 1 November the agent showed up in Baghdad, with more disturbing video detailing victims suffering from chemical weapons effects.
The agent exhibits unique characteristics unlike previous instances in Syria and elsewhere, but appears to be more fatal than simple tear gas alone. Whatever it may end up being, this represents a major shift and a dramatic escalation against protesters in Iraq. Somebody, somewhere wants to send a message to opposition elements that will remain off the international radar. So far, it appears successful.
