Iraqi government announced a ban on the import, production, and sale of alcoholic beverages in the country.

 The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some expressing support for the move while others have taken to the streets to protest.

On the day the ban was announced, protesters gathered in Baghdad and other major cities to voice their opposition. Chanting slogans such as "Iraq is not an Islamic country," they argued that the ban violated their rights to consume alcohol and live according to their own beliefs.

The ban is seen as a victory for religious conservatives in the country who have long advocated for stricter adherence to Islamic law. Supporters of the ban argue that it is necessary to preserve the country's religious and cultural values and protect its citizens from the negative effects of alcohol.

However, critics argue that the ban will only lead to an increase in illegal alcohol production and consumption, as well as an erosion of personal freedoms. They also point out that Iraq is a diverse country with a significant non-Muslim population, and that the ban unfairly targets them.

The ban has also raised concerns among Iraq's minority Christian population, who rely on alcohol for use in religious ceremonies. They fear that the ban could prevent them from practicing their faith freely and openly.

The decision to ban alcohol in Iraq is not without precedent. Similar bans have been imposed in other predominantly Muslim countries, such as Saudi Arabia and Iran. However, the move has been controversial in Iraq due to the country's complex religious and cultural makeup.

In the end, the ban on alcohol is likely to remain a divisive issue in Iraq. Supporters will argue that it is necessary to uphold the country's religious values, while opponents will continue to fight for their right to consume alcohol and live according to their own beliefs.