Civil society activists from Sulaymaniyah protested the attack carried out by dozens of men against a young woman who was visiting a gallery where cars and motorcycles were exhibited in the Hiwan neighbourhood in the city.

Banners with anti-patriarchal and anti-violent slogans were hung in the protest. Speaking on behalf of the activists, Women's Rights activist Bihar Munzur said: "The lynching attempt in Hiwan on Friday once again revealed the persecution of women in society. We are here. Woman is life, don't kill life."

What happened

Videos circulated on digital networks show the woman being chased and beaten by dozens of men. The sexist violence is celebrated and filmed by those present.

Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed, whose husband is Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid (PUK) also reacted via Twitter: "I strongly condemn the attack on the young woman. Violence against women is unacceptable. The perpetrators must be brought to justice."

According to police, seven people have been arrested in connection with the attack and investigations are ongoing.