Iraqi Deputy Oil Minister Ezzat Sabir Denies Arrest Warrant Amid Expanding Corruption Crackdown

Peregraf- Dr. Ezzat Sabir, Iraq’s Deputy Oil Minister and a representative of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), has denied reports that an arrest warrant has been issued against him as part of Iraq’s expanding anti-corruption campaign, which has led to the arrest of dozens of members of parliament and senior government officials.

In a statement, Sabir said anonymous social media pages and accounts had circulated “false news” over the past several days alleging that he had committed illegal acts and was wanted by the authorities.

“This news is far from the truth, and I am currently continuing my daily work at the Ministry of Oil,” Sabir said.

He rejected claims linking him to contracts involving the Khor Mor gas field, stating that Dana Gas signed its agreement with the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), not Iraq’s Ministry of Oil.

“The Khor Mor pipeline, the Khor Mor field, and Khor Mor production are all under the authority of the KRG,” he said.

Sabir also said he has submitted annual financial disclosure statements to Iraq’s Commission of Integrity since taking office and is prepared to face any legal scrutiny.

“I am always ready for accountability. Therefore, I consider it my right to file a lawsuit against those pages and accounts,” he added.

The clarification comes as Iraqi authorities continue a sweeping anti-corruption campaign centered on former Deputy Oil Minister for Refining Affairs Adnan al-Jumaili. The investigation has expanded to include numerous members of parliament and senior officials.

Among those detained is Ali Maarij al-Bahadli, Deputy Oil Minister for Distribution Affairs. Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council recently announced that investigators recovered $11 million and 4 billion Iraqi dinars allegedly linked to al-Bahadli, publishing photographs showing cash packed in bags and concealed inside the walls of his house.

The broader investigation has already resulted in the arrest of dozens of MPs and senior government officials, with judicial authorities saying additional arrests and legal measures are expected as the corruption probe continues.