Iraq seizes $14 million from detained deputy oil minister in anti-graft sweep

Iraq's anti-corruption drive has netted a significant haul, with the judiciary seizing over $14 million in cash and properties from a detained deputy oil minister. The operation, part of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi's campaign against graft, also led to the arrest of 21 individuals, including members of parliament.

The investigation into Deputy Oil Minister for Distribution Affairs, Ali al-Bahadli, resulted in the confiscation of $11 million and four billion Iraqi dinars, estimated at over $3 million. Authorities also seized several properties.

This crackdown is a key initiative by Prime Minister al-Zaidi, who recently took office with U.S. support. While corruption is reportedly rampant in Iraq's public institutions, convictions typically involve mid-level officials, with higher-ranking figures rarely facing consequences.

Earlier this month, authorities seized over $85 million in a separate corruption case involving Oil Ministry official Adnan al-Jumaili, who was arrested in May. The new arrests were reportedly made based on al-Jumaili's confessions. Prime Minister al-Zaidi was scheduled to visit Washington late last month.