A prominent 23-year-old Iraqi TikTok personality was shot dead in Baghdad.
Noor Alsaffar, 23, was known on social media as "Noor BM," she had over 370,000 followers on Instagram and TikTok.
Alsaffar primarily shared short videos of herself wearing various outfits, hair and makeup styles, and dancing to music.
Many people commented on Alsaffar's death after hearing about the shooting. Others applauded, praising the individual who fired the shot.
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The Iraqi security source told CNN that "an investigation has been opened" but asked to remain anonymous since they were not authorized to speak to the media. "The deceased has been taken to the forensic department."
On Tuesday, Iraqi police spokesperson Khaled Almehna classified the attack as a "criminal incident," adding that he would provide "important updates" later.
The assassination occurs as Iraq tightens its grip on LGBTQ expression and attempts to criminalize it under the law. While being gay is not technically prohibited under current Iraqi legislation, LGBTQ people are frequently persecuted under ambiguous morality clauses in its penal code.
Alsaffar had endured online abuse and inquiries about his sexuality and gender before the shooting. Alsaffar stated in a 2020 interview with Iraq's Al Walaa channel, "I'm not transgender, and I'm not gay." I don't have any other interests; I'm just a cross-dresser and a model." Alsaffar is characterized as a man who works as a makeup artist and model.
Alsaffar stated in videos about receiving threats on social media for his clothing choices.
Alsaffar stated in a 2021 YouTube interview with Iraqi blogger Samir Jermani, "I'm cautious but not afraid," in response to a question regarding the TikToker's appearance.
IraQueer, an Iraqi LGBTQ rights organization, posted about Alsaffar's killing on X, formerly known as Twitter, with the hashtags #Transphobia and #MuderOfTransPeople.
