Anti-Corruption 'Operation Dawn' Sparks Tension Within Iraq's Coordination Framework

BAGHDAD, Iraq — A large-scale detention campaign titled "Operation Dawn," launched to combat corruption in Baghdad, has caused tension within the Coordination Framework that brought Prime Minister Ali ez-Zeydi to power. Elite units from the Counter-Terrorism Service carried out the operation, resulting in dozens of detentions and the seizure of assets worth millions of dollars. The actions followed testimony provided by former Deputy Oil Minister Adnan Cemili. During a closed-door meeting, some Coordination Framework leaders criticized the execution of the operation, including the closure of the Green Zone and the deployment of special forces. Former Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani characterized the process as a personal attack. Participants further alleged that detentions occurred without prior consultation and that security forces leaked images of detainees' homes and families. Tensions escalated following the detection of a reconnaissance drone over the Green Zone that could not be downed. Meanwhile, Sadr Group leader Muqtada al-Sadr expressed support for Prime Minister ez-Zeydi in a message delivered during Friday prayers, calling for the campaign to continue.