Thousands of violent protesters believed to be Iran-backed Iraqi militia members and their supporters attacked the US Embassy in Baghdad on Tuesday.

By Wednesday, the situation had improved, with most of the protesters retreating from the immediate area, but significant damage had already been done.

These photos from the day after the protests show the destruction and devastation in the wake of the assault.

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Swarms of violent protesters, apparent supporters of the Iran-backed Iraqi militias targeted by recent US airstrikes, stormed the US Embassy in Baghdad on Tuesday.

Protesters on December 31. REUTERS/Khalid al-Mousily

These photos taken Wednesday show clearly the damage caused by the attack on this diplomatic outpost.