At a Glance:

• National Security Service recovered $14M and 105B IQD, returning funds to the treasury.
• Authorities seized a clandestine facility, capturing 25 drone frames and arresting three suspects.
• Interior Ministry shut down an illicit minting lab as overall national crime rates declined.
• Officials reiterated a strict policy to disarm non-state actors and regulate firearm ownership.

During a joint security press conference, Iraqi security authorities announced major operational successes, including the recovery of millions in seized assets, the destruction of an illicit drone manufacturing hub, and the shutdown of a counterfeit currency mint. Officials also reaffirmed ongoing efforts to bring all firearms under state control and modernize the nation's air defense capabilities.

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Key Statements and Focus Area:

• State Monopoly on Firearms:"Any weapon outside official state control is considered illegal under national policy." — Sabah Numan, Spokesperson for the Commander-in-Chief.
• PMF Position on Coalition Departure:"The Popular Mobilization Forces will hold public celebrations upon the full withdrawal of coalition forces from Iraq." — Muhanad al-Aqabi, PMF Media Director.

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Seizure of Currency, Drones, and Cyber Threat Neutralization

National Security Service Spokesperson Arshad Hakim confirmed that security operations resulted in the recovery of $14 million USD and 105 billion Iraqi dinars, which were successfully transferred back to the public treasury. In a parallel operation, security forces dismantled a secret drone workshop, seizing 25 drone frames and arresting three individuals on-site. Additionally, authorities closed 2,740 social media accounts during H1 2026 to curb hate speech and online threats to social stability.

Interior Ministry Operations and Border Security

Interior Ministry Spokesperson Sabah al-Numan detailed the shutdown of an illicit currency minting lab alongside the arrest of several suspects. Al-Numan noted that nationwide crime rates continue to fall, supported by secured thermal imaging systems along Iraq’s borders. Security Media Cell Head Saad Maan emphasized that authorities will maintain a zero-tolerance stance toward hate speech while advancing formal firearm registration programs.

Military Modernization, Tuz Khurmatu, and PMF Alignment

Defense Ministry Spokesperson Yahya Rasool clarified that military units remain fully deployed in Tuz Khurmatu, dismissing withdrawal rumors while highlighting a dedicated fund established to acquire advanced air defense systems. PMF Media Director Muhanad al-Aqabi reaffirmed the force’s alignment with the Commander-in-Chief in anti-ISIS missions, confirming that the PMF intends to host public celebrations once international coalition forces complete their exit from Iraq.

FYI

The multi-agency briefing reflects Baghdad’s dual focus on tackling domestic organized crime and enforcing central authority over military assets. By showcasing major financial recoveries alongside strict rhetoric on non-state arms control, the Iraqi government aims to reassure the public of institutional stability as international coalition forces prepare for their ultimate departure.

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