Gunfire heard as security forces seal Green Zone in reported corruption sweep

BAGHDAD — Iraqi security forces sealed Baghdad’s Green Zone before dawn Sunday, deploying armored vehicles, tanks and Counter Terrorism Service units across the district in an operation that led to the arrest of several senior officials and politicians on corruption allegations.

No government institution, senior official or state media outlet had publicly explained the operation by the time of publication.

The Green Zone was closed before 3 a.m. Sunday as columns of armored vehicles entered and tanks moved through the streets with their guns facing to the rear, according to local sources. Before 5 a.m., residents reported several minutes of gunfire from light and medium weapons.

Sources said the operation targeted a number of senior officials on corruption charges. At least 10 politicians, lawmakers and advisers were arrested in the raids, the same sources said, and some members of their security details resisted with gunfire.

Sources linked the operation to investigations involving detained Oil Ministry official Adnan al-Jumaili.

Ambulances were seen entering residential compounds where senior officials live inside the Green Zone, but there was no confirmation that anyone was killed or wounded in the reported clashes.

Deployments were reported outside the Green Zone as well. Witnesses said Counter Terrorism Service vehicles were positioned at Khilani Square near the approach from Sinak Bridge on the Rusafa side, while other security vehicles lined Court Street toward the Qadisiyah area near the zone. Counter Terrorism Service vehicles were also reported in Sadr City at Wahran Square.

Security forces continued inspecting vehicles with government license plates at Green Zone checkpoints, witnesses said, while military helicopters flew over the area through the morning.

By the time of publication, no statement had been issued by the prime minister’s office, the Joint Operations Command, the Interior Ministry, the Counter Terrorism Service, the judiciary or any other Iraqi authority, and state media had not reported details explaining the operation.

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