Passage of harsh anti-LGBTQ law in Iraq draws diplomatic backlash

Shiite Muslims self-flagellate over an unfurled banner depicting the pride rainbow flag defaced with a boot and the Arabic words "no to a homosexual society," in Nasiriyah in Iraq's southern Dhi Qar province, July 25, 2023. [AFP]

Human rights groups and diplomats criticized a law that was quietly passed by the Iraqi parliament over the weekend that would impose heavy prison sentences on gay and transgender people.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement that the law passed Saturday "threatens those most at risk in Iraqi society" and "can be used to hamper free speech and expression." He warned that the legislation could drive away foreign investment.