Iraqi security source denies raid on former minister's home in Anbar

BAGHDAD, Iraq — A security source in Anbar province denied reports that security forces had surrounded the home of former Industry Minister Khalid Batil. The source said the information circulating on social media did not reflect reality and that no siege operation was being carried out at the address. The official told reporters that the security activity observed in the area was related to efforts to resolve a family dispute between Batil and his uncle, and was not connected to any corruption investigation. The denial came as Iraq moved forward with a wave of arrests targeting politicians, lawmakers and businesspeople early Sunday morning. Prime Minister Ali Falih al-Zaydi told the Cabinet meeting that the operations marked the first phase of broader measures aimed at recovering public funds. Cabinet members also called on oversight bodies to review reports of corruption and shortcomings within state institutions. No further details on the reported arrests or on Batil's case were immediately available.