Iraqi security forces patrol a neighborhood in Baghdad
Iraqi officials reject claims of ending hazard pay for security forces
BAGHDAD — Both Maj. Gen. Saad Maan and Finance Minister Taif Sami denied reports circulating on social media that the government had decided to halt hazard allowances for members of the security forces.
Maj. Gen. Maan, head of the Security Media Cell, said the claims were “completely false and aim to provoke public opinion and spread rumors among personnel.” He urged citizens “to obtain information from official sources and not be misled by inaccurate news.”
Finance Minister Taif Sami also rejected the reports, confirming that the ministry had not issued any directive or decision to suspend the payments. “The payment of hazard allowances continues in accordance with existing laws and regulations without any change,” she said.
The ministry said it continues to monitor misinformation spreading online, including claims that a decision had been made “to stop the 500,000-dinar ($357) hazard allowance for security personnel starting next month.”
“These claims are not true,” the statement said. “The ministry has not issued any directive or decision on this matter. The disbursement of allowances continues under the applicable laws and regulations without modification.”
The Finance Ministry called on the public to verify information before sharing and to rely only on official statements “to avoid misleading public opinion.” It reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all government employees receive their entitlements “without discrimination.”
The Ministry of Finance issued new regulations in 2024 defining occupational hazard allowances for government and public-sector employees. The instructions authorize ministers and governors to grant allowances ranging from 20 percent to 30 percent of the basic salary, depending on the level of job-related risk. The system classifies positions into low-, medium-, and high-risk categories and requires coordination with the National Center for Occupational Health and Safety to determine eligibility. The allowances remain in effect during maternity, training, or short-term medical leave but are suspended if an employee transfers to a safer post or takes extended leave unrelated to work.