Video: twitter/hanna dedial
June 28, 2026, 12:54 p.mJune 28, 2026, 1:03 p.m
Several arrests were made during the night in the highly secured government district of the Iraqi capital Baghdad. Videos could be seen on social media of tanks and military vehicles in the so-called Green Zone, where government facilities as well as embassies of the USA and other countries are located. Longer bursts of gunfire can also be heard in videos from the night. Local media reported that more than eight people were arrested. There was talk of up to 15 arrests, including high-ranking politicians and officials.
Video: twitter/hanna dedial
The state agency INA reported that these were arrests on allegations of corruption following confessions from former deputy oil minister Adnan al-Jumaili. Several MPs were also arrested. Videos from the night showed special forces breaking into some houses during suspected raids. The Green Zone, where high-ranking politicians and their families also live, was temporarily sealed off.
New head of government pushes fight against corruption
The new Prime Minister Ali al-Saidi has made the fight against corruption and the embezzlement of public funds one of his main concerns. Al-Jumaili and a former governor have already been arrested. According to reports, investigators have confiscated funds worth the equivalent of 75 million euros, as well as dozens of properties, cars and gold jewelry.
In addition to the fight against corruption, according to some observers, this could also be an attempt by the new head of government to take action against political opponents early in his term in office. Al-Saidi took over the position six weeks ago.
The Green Zone is the de facto power center of Baghdad. Military operations there are extremely rare, but in recent years there have been repeated protests and violent clashes in the area. Iraq is also a theater in the conflict between the USA and Iran, which exerts great influence in the country. (sda/dpa/hde)