Protests over chronic electricity shortages turned violent in Kut (the capital of Wasit Governorate in southeastern Iraq), as demonstrators took to the streets demanding improved power supply during a period of soaring temperatures. Security forces deployed tear gas to disperse crowds gathered outside the Wasit Governorate Council. The unrest highlights the ongoing strain on Iraq's power infrastructure, which regularly fails to meet demand during intense summer heat waves that can push temperatures well above 50°C.