Iraq Prime Minister Ali al‑Zaidi launches anti‑corruption raids in Baghdad’s Green Zone

Prime Minister Ali al‑Zaidi ordered a large‑scale anti‑corruption operation on June 28, 2026. Elite Counter‑Terrorism Service units sealed off Baghdad’s fortified Green Zone and conducted overnight raids that targeted senior officials and parliamentarians whose immunity had been lifted. According to state‑run reports, the operation resulted in the arrest of at least seven people, including five members of parliament, and, in other accounts, up to 17 officials. The arrests were sparked by testimony from former Deputy Oil Minister Adnan al‑Jumaili, who had been detained a month earlier on embezzlement charges. Authorities seized roughly $86 million in cash, along with dozens of properties, vehicles and gold jewellery. An AFP source said “the raid targeted several politicians over financial corruption, per judicial orders.” The government spokesman said corruption “is one of the gravest challenges threatening the Iraqi state.” The crackdown follows the creation of a Supreme Sovereign Council for Integrity, Oversight and Recovery of Public Funds, presided over by the prime minister, and is seen as a test of the new administration’s willingness to confront entrenched graft.