Media: Iraq foils drone plot to assassinate top judge, arrests 15

Iraqi security forces have dismantled a militant cell accused of plotting a drone assassination attempt against Faeq Zaidan, president of the country’s Supreme Judicial Council, Al Hadath reports.

The National Security Service arrested 15 people suspected of involvement in the alleged conspiracy, which highlights continuing security threats facing Iraq’s state institutions as Baghdad seeks to consolidate control over armed groups.

Intelligence intercepts indicated that the suspects planned to use weaponized drones to target Zaidan’s residence or motorcade. Security forces seized explosive materials, remote-triggering devices and surveillance equipment during coordinated raids in several provinces.

The sophistication of the equipment has raised concerns about external logistical support and smuggling networks capable of circumventing federal border controls.

Zaidan, who heads Iraq’s highest judicial authority, oversees the appointment, promotion and disciplinary procedures for judges across the country. His tenure has included high-profile efforts to combat corruption and terrorism financing, putting him at odds with powerful political factions and affiliated armed groups.

The reported assassination plot comes amid growing tensions between Iraq’s state institutions and Iran-aligned paramilitary factions operating within the Popular Mobilization Forces. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has pledged to curb unauthorized armed activity, although some factions retain significant political, economic and military influence.

Security analysts warn that the continued existence of parallel armed structures leaves senior Iraqi officials vulnerable to targeted attacks and retaliation over politically sensitive judicial decisions.

The foiled plot also underscores broader concerns about Iraq’s fragile security environment. As one of the world’s major oil exporters, any escalation threatening key infrastructure, including the Basra export terminals or oil transportation routes, could have repercussions for global energy markets.

The arrests provide temporary relief for Iraq’s judiciary, but the broader challenge of bringing all armed groups under unified state command remains unresolved. Until that issue is addressed, targeted political violence will continue to pose a significant threat to Iraq’s institutions.

By Vafa Guliyeva