Iraq anti-corruption chief says no red lines in graft fight

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The head of Iraq's anti-corruption body said Thursday that there are no red lines in the country's fight against corruption, stressing that quality operations would continue. Speaking at a meeting in Nineveh, Mohammed Ali Lami, head of the Iraqi Commission of Integrity, said combating corruption is the foundation for development and reconstruction. In a statement, the commission said Lami emphasized that those who encroach on public property must be brought before the courts. He said protecting citizens and investors from blackmail and bargaining is a priority, and that a suitable environment will be provided for reconstruction and investment. Lami also pointed to the sacrifices of Nineveh's residents and underlined the role of honest and diligent officials in safeguarding public assets. Separately, a deputy head of the Nineveh Court of Appeal said cooperation between the judiciary and the integrity commission has led to the exposure of major corruption cases and the recovery of billions of Iraqi dinars.