Iraq anti-corruption campaign entered a new phase on Monday after security forces began searching lawmakers leaving Baghdad’s Green Zone. A member of parliament described the measure as unprecedented and said authorities introduced the searches to prevent the transfer of money between officials during the ongoing investigations.
Mohammed al-Shammari, a lawmaker from the Khadmat bloc, revealed the new security procedures during an interview with Al Rabiaa TV. He said security personnel searched every lawmaker leaving the Green Zone. According to al-Shammari, authorities introduced the measure for the first time.
He explained that security forces wanted to stop officials from moving money between individuals while investigators continued expanding corruption cases. As a result, lawmakers encountered stricter security checks before leaving the heavily protected government district.
Furthermore, al-Shammari praised the government’s latest actions. He argued that the campaign has already changed the political atmosphere in Baghdad. He also predicted that authorities would broaden the operation in the coming days.
“The past two days brought significant changes after Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi launched the campaign,” al-Shammari said. He added that future developments could surprise the public as investigators continue making arrests.
Moreover, the lawmaker expressed confidence that the campaign would continue gathering momentum. He urged the government to closely examine officials who have remained absent from public duties during the past two days. He suggested that investigators should determine whether those absences require further scrutiny.
At the same time, al-Shammari stressed that honest public officials should not fear investigations. He said accountability strengthens public trust and supports the rule of law. Therefore, he welcomed the government’s efforts to pursue corruption cases through legal channels.
He also argued that Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi could gain broad public support by maintaining the momentum of the campaign. According to al-Shammari, continued action against corruption would demonstrate the government’s commitment to reform.
The latest comments came one day after Iraqi authorities announced a sweeping anti-corruption operation. Officials said security forces arrested dozens of current and former lawmakers, political figures, and government officials during the nationwide campaign.
State media reported that investigators launched the operation after reviewing confessions from Deputy Oil Minister Adnan al-Jumaili. Authorities detained him earlier this month over alleged financial irregularities involving the oil sector.
Since then, investigators have expanded their inquiries into several corruption cases. Consequently, security agencies have increased coordination with judicial authorities as new evidence emerges.
Meanwhile, public attention has remained focused on the government’s crackdown. Many Iraqis continue following developments closely as officials announce new investigations and legal actions.
Supporters of the campaign argue that stronger enforcement measures could improve transparency and reinforce confidence in public institutions. However, authorities continue emphasizing the importance of following legal procedures throughout every investigation.
As Iraq anti-corruption campaign efforts continue, security measures inside Baghdad’s Green Zone appear to have become significantly stricter. Officials have not indicated how long the enhanced searches will remain in place.
For now, Iraq anti-corruption campaign developments continue to reshape Iraq’s political landscape. Government officials have pledged to pursue corruption cases while expanding investigations into alleged financial crimes across several state institutions.
