Iraqi authorities have launched a significant crackdown on corruption, seizing over 825 pounds of gold and tens of millions in cash. This operation has led to the arrest of at least 21 individuals, including numerous government officials and former parliament members. These actions follow the arrest in May of Adnan Al-Jumaili, a former deputy oil minister, on charges of corruption.
Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi, who assumed office in May, has expressed a strong commitment to addressing corruption in Iraq. However, the magnitude of this task is substantial, as indicated by a government official speaking to CBS News under anonymity. The operation uncovered large amounts of gold, cash in both U.S. dollars and Iraqi dinars, along with vehicles and properties, highlighting the widespread nature of corruption in the country, especially within the oil sector.
The latest campaign was unexpected,the official noted, pointing out that it commenced early in Al-Zaidi’s term, in contrast to previous administrations that often failed to take definitive action against corruption.It came as a surprise to all involved and it will continue to include corruption cases in other sectors.
Diaa Jaafar, an investigative judge at Iraq’s Central Anti-Corruption Court, reported to the Iraqi News Agency that operations resulted in the recovery of 790 pounds of gold in one instance and 37 pounds in another. This gold has been returned to Iraq’s central bank. A recent operation also uncovered $10.6 million in Iraqi dinars in a drainage pit.
Haider al-Aboudi, a government spokesperson, mentioned to Al Jazeera that the al-Jumaili case had resulted in the recovery of over $96 million, alongside $24 million in real estate, vehicles, and gold. He emphasized the Iraqi public’s demand for accountability for those who misused public funds.
With a view to bringing suspects to justice, Iraq has prepared legal documents to extradite several hundred individuals living abroad as part of this anti-corruption initiative.
Disarming Iranian-backed Militias
Prime Minister Al-Zaidi recently met President Trump in Washington to discuss American investment in Iraqi infrastructure, as well as strategies to disarm Iran-backed militias by September 21 and to withdraw all U.S. forces from Iraq by September 30. President Trump expressed support for Iraq, stating, We love Iraq.
Iran-backed militias have posed challenges to Iraq for over two decades, with some hardline groups rejecting disarmament. These militias have been involved in attacks against U.S. diplomatic sites and forces.
Kuwait’s foreign ministry condemned Iran and its militia allies for recent attacks on border posts and a Kuwait Oil Company platform, leading to injuries and damages. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have made similar accusations against Iraq-based militias.