Iraq sees 13% drop in crime in first half of 2025, Interior Ministry says

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Interior Ministry reported a 13% decrease in criminal incidents nationwide during the first half of 2025 compared to the previous six months, attributing the decline to ongoing public safety efforts.

“The Interior Ministry has achieved a 13% reduction in criminal incidents in the first half of 2025 compared to the second half of last year,” ministry spokesperson Col. Abbas Al-Bahadli said Thursday in an official statement.

The update follows a June 1 announcement by Brig. Gen. Muqdad Miri, director of the ministry’s Public Relations and Media Department, who cited a 5% decline in criminal activity during May alone.

“The Rusafa side of Baghdad and Basra governorate were among the areas with the most noticeable drop in crime rates,” Miri said at the time.

The ministry did not provide specific crime statistics but said initiatives aimed at strengthening security and reducing crime remain ongoing.