Iraq media regulator approves seizure mechanism for devices used in violations

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Iraqi Communications and Media Commission approved at its 18th regular session a mechanism allowing authorities to seize devices and equipment used in regulatory violations. The meeting, chaired by commission head Belasim Salim, reviewed technical and regulatory files and examined a draft cybercrime law forwarded by parliament's Security and Defense Committee. Members also approved the allocation of short-number codes to citizen affairs offices in Mosul and Dhi Qar to speed up communication and service delivery to the public. The council finalized a regulatory framework covering violations and penalties in the telecommunications and information technology sector. The amendments are intended to strengthen oversight and ensure penalties for breaches are applied in line with current rules. No further details on the implementation timeline were immediately provided.