Iraq Decries Torching Of Iran's Consulate In Southern Najaf

Iraq's Foreign Ministry condemned an attack on Iran's consulate in the southern city of Najaf, the country's state news agency reported early on November 28 citing the ministry.

The previous day's attack, during which protesters set the diplomatic building on fire, was "aimed at damaging the historical relations between Iraq and Iran and with rest of the countries," the ministry said.

The statement stressed that the attack didn't reflect Iraq's perspective saying, "diplomatic missions operating in Iraq are highly respected and appreciated."Demonstrators have been angry at Tehran, which they blame for supporting a government they have been protesting against for nearly two months.

Chanting "Victory to Iraq" and "Iran out" the protesters stormed the consulate late on November 27 and set the entire building ablaze, police and civil defense source were quoted as saying.

They said staff at the consulate had evacuated the facility before the attack occurred.

Security forces used tear gas and live ammunition to try to disperse the protesters, some reports said.