Iraqi security forces, under Prime Minister Ali Al‑Zahidi, carried out a large anti‑corruption operation in Baghdad, detaining dozens of politicians, parliamentarians and officials.
Units including the Counter‑Terrorism Service (CTS) raided homes in the Green Zone and other areas, arresting 47 people, among them oil minister’s deputy Ali Ma'arij and opposition leaders.
The Federal Ethics Council said the arrests were part of a judicial crackdown on embezzlement, with all actions carried out lawfully and under court supervision. About $86 million in cash was seized.
Former Prime Minister Nouri al‑Maliki endorsed the operation, calling it a long‑awaited step to hold those who squandered public wealth accountable.