Iraq arrests dozens of lawmakers in Baghdad corruption sweep

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi security forces detained dozens of lawmakers and senior politicians in pre-dawn raids in Baghdad directed by Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi, according to reports from the operations. The detentions were carried out as part of corruption investigations. Following the arrests, Abdul-Mahdi said measures against armed groups would also be accelerated. He said the government would pursue a firm line against armed formations in order to protect sovereignty and reinforce state authority. The government announced that its anti-corruption drive and disarmament process would be carried out simultaneously. Officials said the measures, targeting both lawmakers and armed groups, would continue through judicial and security institutions. No further details on the detained lawmakers or the corruption allegations were immediately available.