Iraq anti-corruption raid detains dozens of officials

On 28 June 2026 Iraqi security forces launched a large‑scale anti‑corruption operation in Baghdad’s heavily guarded Green Zone. The raid, coordinated by the judiciary, executive and parliament, sealed off the area’s entry points and deployed armored vehicles and special‑forces units.

Authorities arrested 47 people, including members of the Azim Coalition, several members of parliament such as Musenna el‑Samerrayi, Ziyad el‑Cenabi, Beha el‑Nuri and others, as well as senior officials like Deputy Oil Minister Ali Maric and consultant Ibrahim el‑Sumeydi. Some reports also mention 20 high‑level figures, but the officially disclosed total is 47 detainees.

The anti‑corruption commission said the arrests followed long‑term investigations into misuse of public funds. Prime Minister Ali Zeydi, who took office in May and pledged reforms, has not yet issued a public comment. The operation is seen as a test of his government’s resolve to combat graft within Iraq’s political elite.