Lawmakers urge reversal of 1% salary deduction for Gaza and Lebanon aid

BAGHDAD — Iraqi lawmakers have called for the annulment of the Iraqi council of ministers’ decision imposing a 1% salary deduction from state employees and retirees to support humanitarian efforts in Gaza and Lebanon, citing a lack of legal basis for the move.

Hadi al-Salami, a member of the Parliamentary Integrity Committee, addressed the Speaker of Parliament on Saturday, urging the issuance of a parliamentary resolution to cancel the compulsory deductions. In an official document, al-Salami presented signed lists from fellow parliamentarians advocating for the repeal of Cabinet Decision No. 24888 of 2024. The document stated that the deductions from salaries, allowances, and pensions of state institutions lack legal justification and called for the reimbursement of the amounts already withheld.

This is not the first attempt by Parliament to overturn the decision, on Nov. 26, 2024, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Shakhawan Abdullah asked the General Secretariat of The Council of Ministers regarding the 1% salary deduction, seeking amendments to the decision.

In November 2024, the Iraqi government approved a ‘voluntary’ initiative to deduct 1% from the salaries, allowances, and pensions of state employees and retirees to support humanitarian efforts in Gaza and Lebanon. Effective Dec. 1, 2024, these funds are to be distributed equally between the two regions or as prioritized by the Prime Minister.

Employees and retirees who do not wish to participate can opt out by submitting a formal request to their respective ministries or agencies.

In response to the Cabinet’s directive, the National Pension Authority on Nov. 28 provided an online form for retirees who wish to opt out of the 1% deduction intended for Gaza and Lebanon. Retirees not wishing to contribute were advised to complete the provided form to exclude themselves from the donation.

The government’s decision to deduct 1% from salaries has sparked widespread controversy and public opposition. Economic expert Mohammed Al-Hassani revealed that these deductions generate approximately 70 billion dinars ($48 million) monthly. “There is widespread public opposition among employees and retirees to this measure,” Al-Hassani told Shafaq News, describing the policy as a form of corruption and urging parliament to intervene immediately.

In addition to sending humanitarian aid to Lebanon, Iraq has welcomed thousands of Lebanese refugees. Al-Sudani has reaffirmed Iraq’s solidarity with Lebanon and its people, emphasizing support for initiatives aimed at preserving Lebanese sovereignty.