Sadr urges 'civil revolt' as battles erupt in Basra

A ceasefire crucial to recent security improvements in Iraq was today under severe strain after Moqtada al-Sadr called for "civil revolt" following a crackdown on Shia factions in Basra.

Iraqi security forces in the southern Iraqi city encountered heavy resistance as battles broke out with gunmen from Sadr's Mahdi Army militia.

Officials in Basra said 22 people were killed in the clashes, with a further 58 wounded.

Following the clashes, Sadr appeared to threaten to end the ceasefire, which was declared last August.