Iraq's anti-corruption crackdown faces scepticism despite dramatic raids

Iraq's anti-corruption crackdown faces scepticism despite dramatic raids Submitted by Azhar Al-Rubaie on Tue, 07/07/2026 - 15:35 Authorities have recovered tens of millions in cash and assets, but many Iraqis are questioning whether the campaign will also extend to powerful political figures Iraqi security forces stand guard in Baghdad on 8 March 2026 (Ahmad al-Rubaye/AFP) Off A dawn raid inside Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone delivered one of Iraq' s most dramatic anti-corruption crackdowns in years, but many Iraqis remain unconvinced that some of the country's most powerful figures will ever face justice. Tanks, armoured vehicles and counter terrorism units rolled into Baghdad Residence, a neighbourhood near the US Embassy inside the Green Zone early on 28 June, following an investigation by Iraq's new government into funds allegedly obtained through irregularities in state projects. During the raids, which resulted in the arrests of at least 47 people, heavily armed troops could be seen raiding the homes and offices of politicians, members of parliament and other senior officials, resulting in the seizure of millions of dollars in cash, gold bars and even gold-made women's lingerie.