Iraqi authorities have dismantled four Islamic State-linked cells in a series of security operations conducted in early 2026, the Ministry of Interior announced on April 15.
Speaking at a press conference, ministry spokesperson Colonel Abbas al-Bahadli said the nationwide campaign involved extensive intelligence efforts and preemptive actions. The Intelligence and Investigations Directorate issued 479 arrest warrants under Article 4 of Iraq’s Anti-Terrorism Law and carried out approximately 80 preventive operations, Shafaq News reports.
As part of the crackdown, security forces detained 22 suspects in kidnapping cases and arrested 173 individuals linked to so-called “tribal daka” extortion practices. Authorities also seized 732 antiquities that were allegedly prepared for smuggling, and arrested 10 individuals accused of impersonating government officials.
Al-Bahadli warned that despite its territorial defeat in 2017, ISIS has adapted its tactics, increasingly relying on social media and online gaming platforms to attract and recruit younger members.
The group continues to operate as an insurgent network, particularly in remote and rural areas such as Diyala, Kirkuk, Saladin, and Anbar provinces.
Earlier this year, Iraq’s Counter Terrorism Service conducted a large-scale operation in the Hamrin mountain range in Saladin province, capturing a senior ISIS figure reportedly linked to the group’s “Bayt al-Mal,” or financial wing.
By Sabina Mammadli
