Anadolu Agency- Iraqi Vice President Nouri al-Maliki has described protests currently underway in next-door Iran as an �internal issue�, going on to blame the demonstrations -- which have included acts of violence -- on �Iran�s enemies�.


�What is going on [in Iran] is an internal issue,� al-Maliki told reporters on Wednesday. �Iran�s enemies are attempting to sow riot and confusion.�


He went on to call for calm in Iran, urging Tehran to take �appropriate measures in the interest of the Iranian people."


The Iraqi vice-president also condemned "any foreign interference in the internal affairs of Iran or of any other country."


Last Thursday, Iranians took to the streets in the northeastern cities of Mashhad and Kashmar to protest rising inflation and perceived government mismanagement, according to local media reports.


These protests were followed on Saturday and Wednesday by large demonstrations in support of the government.


Since the demonstrations erupted six days ago, at least 23 people have been killed -- including a police officer -- while hundreds more have reportedly been detained.