(CNN) Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abdul Mahdi has ordered an investigation into violence that has led to the deaths of at least 31 people this week in ongoing anti-government protests.

The Prime Minister's office said in a statement Thursday that a dedicated committee will be formed, led by Abdul Mahdi's military adviser.

It comes after Iran called on Iraqi authorities to respond "firmly and effectively" to protesters who attacked Tehran's consulate in the southern city of Najaf on Wednesday.

Protests against alleged government corruption and a rejection of Iranian involvement in the country's affairs have continued since October 1.

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi expressed "hatred" for the rioters who stormed and torched the consulate. Mousavi called on the Iraqi government to deal with the "perpetrators of the attack responsibly, firmly and effectively," according to an Iranian foreign affairs ministry statement released on Thursday.

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