Kurdistan Islamic Union backs Iraqi PM's anti-corruption campaign

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Kurdistan Islamic Union has expressed support for Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaydi's anti-corruption operations, according to a statement from the group's general secretary, Salaheddin Mohammed Bahaeddin. In a message sent to Baghdad, Bahaeddin welcomed the government's steps, describing them as a "bold move" and a "historic turning point toward restoring the state's standing." He said the campaign is significant for safeguarding judicial independence and upholding the rule of law. Bahaeddin also stressed that the operations should be carried out in a way that protects the rights of innocent people and avoids unfounded accusations. The campaign, launched on Sunday, has led to the detention of political officials, lawmakers and businesspeople. Speaking at a Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister al-Zaydi said the detentions represent the "first phase of broader measures aimed at recovering public resources." No further details on the scope of the operations were immediately available.