In Iraq, at least seven protesters were killed as security forces cleared protest sites in Baghdad and Basra using live ammunition. <br />'' <br />'' The crackdown began yesterday when security forces fired live rounds and tear gas at the protesters at the Liberation Square in Baghdad.<br />'' <br />'' Four demonstrators died in Baghdad while three were killed in the southern city of Basra. <br />'' <br />'' Local medics say that over 200 people have been killed and thousands wounded by security forces since the demonstrations broke out in October. The protesters are demanding profound reform and constitutional amendments.