Iraq’s NSS says it dismantled Baath-linked cell west of Baghdad

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s National Security Service says it dismantled a cell linked to the banned Baath Party west of Baghdad and arrested eight suspects, while also sending warning text messages to individuals promoting the party online, the agency said Thursday.

Spokesperson Arshad al-Hakim said the cell was uncovered after months of intelligence work, with its organizational structure found to have “begun under a civilian cover before shifting to a military nature.” Security forces seized photographs of security figures and sensitive sites in the suspects’ possession, along with evidence of attempts to recruit new members.

The agency also sent warning messages to individuals affiliated with the “Iraqi National Gathering for Change and Liberation” and platforms linked to the Baath Party, saying the messages prompted a number of recipients to announce their withdrawal and close social media accounts used for recruitment and promotion.

The Baath Party ruled Iraq from 1968 until 2003 and remains banned under Iraqi law. Recent prosecutions include a six-year sentence handed down in December 2025 for attending party meetings and possessing promotional material, and a 10-year sentence in November for promoting Baath ideology through social media.