Major Anti-Corruption Sweep in Iraq: Deputy Oil Minister and Politicians Arrested

Iraqi security forces have launched a sweeping anti-corruption operation in the capital, Baghdad, arresting 47 individuals, including high-profile figures. The elite Counter-Terrorism Service participated in raids targeting homes in the heavily secured Green Zone and other locations across the city.

Official sources confirmed that Deputy Oil Minister Ali Maarij and Muthanna el-Samarrai, a leader of the El Azm Alliance, were among those detained. The office manager of el-Samarrai was also apprehended. Reports indicate that several members of parliament from various Shiite political blocs were also targeted after their parliamentary immunity was lifted, a decision reportedly approved by Parliament Speaker Haybat al-Halbusi during the legislative recess.

The Iraqi Federal Integrity Commission stated the operation aims to enforce arrest warrants against individuals accused of embezzling public funds, asserting that all actions are conducted within legal frameworks and judicial orders. Some detentions reportedly stem from testimony provided by the Deputy Oil Minister Adnan al-Jumaili, who was arrested last month on corruption charges. Authorities also reported seizing approximately $86 million in cash as part of the ongoing investigation this month.

Since taking office in May, Prime Minister Ali al-Zeydi has vowed to tackle the pervasive corruption and mismanagement that have weakened public administration in Iraq for years. Anti-corruption activists, however, argue that the country's political structure has long been built on networks of vested interests, with political parties and figures exploiting state resources for their own influence. Former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki expressed support for the operation, urging the Prime Minister and judiciary to pursue those who misuse the nation's wealth, calling it a long-awaited step for the Iraqi people.