Baghdad – Iraq anti-corruption campaign intensified on Sunday after reports emerged that security forces detained several prominent political and administrative figures during a large-scale operation in Baghdad. The campaign follows judicial directives targeting individuals accused of corruption and abuse of public office, although authorities have not officially confirmed the reported arrests.
Security forces launched the operation during the early morning hours under orders issued by Iraq’s anti-corruption court. The coordinated campaign formed part of the government’s broader effort to investigate financial misconduct and strengthen accountability across state institutions.
The operation unfolded inside Baghdad’s heavily protected Green Zone, home to government offices, diplomatic missions, and residences of senior officials. Security units deployed across several locations while tightening access to the district throughout the day. Authorities also closed a number of key entrances as the operation continued.
According to local reports, the campaign targeted several influential politicians and lawmakers after parliamentary immunity was lifted in some cases. Media reports named Muthanna al-Samarrai, head of the Al-Azm Alliance, Mohammed al-Karbouli, and Ziad al-Janabi among those reportedly affected by the operation. However, government agencies have not officially confirmed these names or announced formal charges.
Reports also linked several current and former officials to the investigation. Among the names circulating in local media were Abdul Karim al-Sudani, Abbas al-Sudani, Bahaa al-Nouri, Alaa Sukkar, and Hassan al-Khafaji. Officials have not verified whether these individuals were detained or remain under investigation.
Despite widespread reports, Iraqi authorities have remained cautious about releasing details. No official statement has confirmed the identities of those arrested or provided information regarding the number of people involved. Judicial authorities have also not disclosed the specific evidence supporting the reported warrants.
The extensive security deployment attracted significant public attention across Baghdad. Witnesses reported seeing security personnel surrounding several important facilities inside the Green Zone. The increased presence reflected the scale of the operation and the government’s determination to carry out judicial orders.
Media outlets indicated that security forces continued executing search warrants and confiscation orders throughout the day. Restricted movement remained in place across parts of the Green Zone while authorities completed the ongoing operation. Officials have not announced when security measures will end.
The reported arrests come as Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi continues to prioritize anti-corruption efforts. His administration has repeatedly pledged to strengthen oversight, improve transparency, and pursue legal action against officials accused of financial crimes. The latest operation represents one of the government’s most visible enforcement actions since taking office.
The campaign also follows other high-profile corruption investigations in recent weeks. Among them was the arrest of former Deputy Oil Minister Adnan al-Jumaili, whose case drew national attention and renewed debate over public sector accountability.
As investigations continue, observers expect additional official statements in the coming days. Until then, many details surrounding the operation remain unconfirmed. Nevertheless, the expanding Iraq anti-corruption campaign signals the government’s continued focus on addressing corruption through judicial action and security enforcement. The Iraq anti-corruption campaign is expected to remain a major issue in Iraq’s political landscape as authorities pursue further investigations.