While the demonstrations began in Lebanon in mid-October, the demonstrations in Iraq, which had started two weeks earlier, took off.

- Some analysts believe it is a new Arab spring we are seeing now. In both Lebanon and Iraq, we see a young population rising against the abuse of power and corruption, which means that electricity and water supply do not work in the countries, despite there being great wealth. In both countries, there are also Iran-backed militias who want to see an end to the protests, says Stina Blomgren.

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When protesters on Sunday evening tried to storm the Iranian consulate in the city of Karbala, Iraq, three people were shot dead.

- In Iraq, security forces have used extremely deadly force. And now there is a fear in Iran's leadership of a domino effect for similar protests to spread there, says Stina Blomgren.