Western analyses question reach of Iraq's anti-corruption operation under PM Zedi

WASHINGTON, United States — Western media analyses are examining whether Iraq's "Operation Dawn," an anti-corruption campaign launched under Prime Minister Ali Zedi, will extend to armed groups linked to Iran and entrenched political interests, or remain limited to lower-level figures. The U.S.-based Media Line reported that the operation represents the most visible anti-corruption effort in Iraq in years and constitutes an early test for Zedi, who took office in October. Middle East analyst Talha Abd al-Razzaq argued that the operation's success should be measured by those it does not target. Analysts cited in the reports said those detained so far are largely third-tier Sunni politicians aligned with former Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani, figures whose cases do not affect Iranian interests. The London-based Amwaj outlet reported that the Coordination Framework, Iraq's main Shiite political alliance, is seeking to balance U.S. pressure with its ties to Iran-aligned groups, and that senior Shiite leaders have been kept off the list of targets. Both analyses said Zedi is expected to use his anti-corruption messaging during an upcoming visit to Washington to seek international backing and financial support.