IRAQI security forces installed extra blast walls and layers of razor wire around Baghdad’s green zone yesterday after the compound was breached for a second time.

The new security precautions came two days after hundreds of protesters pushed past police and military guards and stormed the prime minister’s office and the parliament building.

Many protesters were supporters of influential Shi-ite militia leader and preacher Muqtada al-Sadr, who has led months of demonstrations calling for government reforms.

Security forces fired tear gas and live ammunition at the protesters on Friday in an attempt to disperse the crowds.

The clashes left two people dead and more than 100 wounded. Mr Sadr has since issued a statement condemning the use of force against “peaceful” demonstrations and vowed to continue to support the “revolution” against the government.

The additional green zone security has caused massive traffic jams in the Iraqi capital, home to more than seven million people.