Iraqi authorities say they have blocked the transfer of 116 billion Iraqi dinars (about $88.5 million) to Dubai in an operation they describe as part of efforts to strengthen financial oversight and combat corruption.
The announcement was made by Iraq’s Minister of Communications, Mustafa Sanad, who said the funds were stopped before being disbursed due to what he described as a timely intervention.
According to Sanad, the transaction was halted as part of broader measures aimed at preventing the misuse of public funds and tightening financial controls within state institutions.
He said the move was intended to protect public money from what he called “waste and unlawful transfers,” adding that the decision was taken before final approval of the payment process.
Authorities have not disclosed the identities of individuals or entities involved in the case, and it remains unclear whether the matter has been formally referred to Iraq’s Commission of Integrity or the judiciary for further investigation.
The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts by the Iraqi government to address corruption and strengthen financial accountability mechanisms across state bodies.

