In pictures: Protests rock Iraq

Clearing up has started a day after the massive explosion that destroyed the al-Askari shrine in Samarra, central Iraq.

Men worked with bare hands at the compound housing tombs of two descendants of the Prophet Muhammad that was attacked by unknown bombers on Wednesday.

The attack on the revered shrine has brought Shias out into the streets making heartfelt demonstrations of anguish.

Some demonstrations have turned into angry riots, calling for revenge against enemies ranging from America and Israel to Sunni Iraqis.

Sunni mosques have been targeted by Shia gunmen causing damage and deaths, a worrying sign of sectarian conflict that could spiral out of control.

Military guards have been put around some Sunni mosques - such as Abdul Qadir al-Gilani mosque in central Baghdad.

Tension is high and the threat of more violence ever-present, leaving many Iraqis wondering if a step has been taken towards civil war.

In Samarra, furious demonstrators prevented Housing Minister Jassem Muhammad from visiting the damaged shrine.

Tensions boiled over and the incensed Shia crowds attacked the housing minister's police escort in the streets of Samarra

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