Former Iraqi Finance Minister Taif Sami denies reports he fled Iraq

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Former Iraqi Finance Minister Taif Sami on Saturday dismissed reports that he had fled the country or been detained, calling the claims circulating on social media and in some media outlets unfounded. In a statement from his office, Sami said the reports did not reflect reality and were not based on any reliable official source. The office added that Sami had not fled Iraq or been arrested in connection with an anti-corruption campaign that Prime Minister Ali Ziyani is said to have launched. The statement expressed concern over the spread of misinformation and rumors aimed at misleading the public. It urged media outlets, analysts and activists to consult official sources before publishing information. Sami's office also called on Iraq's Communications and Media Commission to take legal action against outlets spreading misleading reports and said those circulating the rumors without official basis would face legal proceedings. No further details were immediately available.