Iraqi security forces have carried out a sweeping anti-corruption operation across Baghdad and several other provinces, detaining more than 35 politicians and senior officials in what is being described as one of the country's largest corruption investigations since 2003.

The operation targeted current and former lawmakers, former government officials, local administrators and other political figures. Raids are continuing in multiple cities as authorities pursue additional suspects linked to corruption cases.

In Baghdad, members of the Counter-Terrorism Service, the Iraqi military and specialized anti-corruption units conducted coordinated operations. Security measures were tightened around the heavily fortified Green Zone, with several roads temporarily closed during the raids.

According to Iraqi media reports, the investigation is based largely on testimony provided by former Deputy Oil Minister Adnan al-Jumaili, who was detained in May after authorities said they recovered approximately $11 million from his residence.

Arrest warrants issued as part of the investigation reportedly cover serving and former members of parliament, governors and senior public officials. Several suspects have been detained in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and other provinces.

Iraq's Federal Commission of Integrity said the arrest warrants were issued under judicial supervision and executed in accordance with the country's laws as part of ongoing investigations into alleged misuse of public funds.

The operations are being carried out under the supervision of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi. Iraq's parliament has also taken legal steps to facilitate proceedings against lawmakers named in the investigation.

The crackdown has received support from several political figures, although some lawmakers have stressed that anti-corruption efforts must be implemented impartially, regardless of political affiliation.

Analysts say the investigation could mark a significant step in dismantling long-standing corruption networks if it is followed by successful prosecutions and greater international cooperation to recover assets transferred abroad.(ILKHA)