Iraqi ministry says viral child abuse video not filmed in Iraq

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Interior Ministry said Friday that a video circulating on social media, which appeared to show a man abusing a young girl, was not filmed in Iraq. In a written statement, the ministry said operational tracking and analysis determined the footage was recorded in a neighboring country. The ministry urged media outlets and social media users to verify information before sharing it and to rely only on official sources. It warned that such unfounded content could cause public unrest. Authorities said posts aimed at misleading the public and distorting public perception would continue to be monitored and that necessary measures would be taken. The ministry asked citizens to refer only to statements issued by official bodies.