Iraq announces 10-day lockdown amid virus surge
Iraq, which is struggling to vaccinate its population, recently topped 1 million coronavirus cases.
![An Iraqi man rides his bicycle past a closed mosque in Baghdad on Feb. 19, 2021, as authorities reimposed partial lockdown measures until early March after detecting a new strain of the coronavirus.](/sites/default/files/styles/article_hero_medium/public/2021-05/GettyImages-1231253864.jpg?h=a5ae579a&itok=fp00Ej9Z)
Iraq is imposing a 10-day lockdown as the country experiences a surge in new coronavirus infections, coupled with a slow vaccine rollout.
From May 12-22, mass gatherings are prohibited and malls, cafes, cinemas, parks, event halls, swimming pools, gymnasiums will remain closed. Pharmacies and grocery stores are exempt, and restaurants can provide takeout only.