At least three protesters have been killed in clashes with security forces as Iraq tries to re-open the port of Umm Qasr.
Anti-government protests shut the country's only deep water terminal three days ago.
The death toll was reported by officials in southern Iraq cited by ABC.
The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said security forces in Umm Qasr were firing live ammunition and tear gas, and that protesters have seized an armoured vehicle.
