Iraq corruption investigation entered another significant phase after the Azm Alliance responded to the arrest of its leader, Muthanna al-Samarrai, along with several lawmakers and officials. The Sunni political coalition urged authorities to respect judicial procedures and constitutional guarantees while the legal process continues.
In an official statement, the alliance confirmed that it continues monitoring developments surrounding the arrests. It also stressed that investigators should handle the case through legal institutions rather than political or media campaigns.
Furthermore, the alliance called on authorities to uphold constitutional protections throughout the investigation. It said every individual deserves justice, legal safeguards, and equal treatment before the law.
Azm also expressed confidence in Iraq’s judicial system and constitutional institutions. The coalition pledged full cooperation with the relevant authorities within the framework of Iraqi law.
Moreover, the alliance urged political parties, media organizations, and the public to avoid reaching conclusions before the courts complete their work. It emphasized the importance of respecting the presumption of innocence and every defendant’s right to a fair trial.
The statement also defended Muthanna al-Samarrai’s political record. According to the alliance, he consistently supported dialogue between Iraq’s communities. It also described him as a supporter of national partnership who opposed division, sectarianism, and political polarization.
Earlier on Sunday, the Iraqi News Agency released the first list of names connected to the country’s expanding anti-corruption campaign. Authorities announced that security forces arrested 47 officials in corruption-related cases across several provinces.
The published list included 15 individuals. Among them were Muthanna al-Samarrai, Mohammed al-Karbouli, and Hind al-Abbasi. State media reported that the lawmakers’ parliamentary immunity had already been lifted before the arrests. Officials also included several senior government figures on the same list.
According to state media, investigators based the arrests on confessions made by Deputy Oil Minister Adnan al-Jumaili. Authorities detained Jumaili earlier this month over alleged financial irregularities within Iraq’s oil sector.
However, officials have released only limited information regarding the wider investigation. They confirmed Jumaili remains in custody while investigators continue examining the allegations. State media has repeatedly linked Sunday’s arrests to statements reportedly made during his interrogation.
Meanwhile, Baghdad witnessed an extensive security deployment before dawn on Sunday. Armored vehicles, tanks, and Counter Terrorism Service units entered the Green Zone as security operations intensified.
Residents reported hearing several minutes of gunfire during the operation. In addition, ambulances entered residential compounds that house senior government officials. Authorities have not announced whether those events directly related to the arrests.
The Iraq corruption investigation has attracted widespread public attention because of the number of officials involved. It also represents one of the country’s largest anti-corruption campaigns in recent years.
Legal proceedings now continue as investigators review evidence and prepare additional judicial steps. Officials have not announced court dates or released further details about the charges against each suspect.
Meanwhile, the Azm Alliance insists that courts should determine responsibility through legal procedures alone. The coalition also warned against allowing political disputes or media narratives to influence judicial outcomes.
The Iraq corruption investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are expected to release additional information as court proceedings move forward.
