Iraqi PM Al Zaidi Assumes Direct Command of Intelligence Service Amid Security Shake-up

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi has taken direct control of the nation's intelligence service, a move that follows the recent dismissal of the agency's former chief. This decision comes in response to what officials have cited as escalating security challenges within the country.

Sabah Al Numan, a government spokesman, confirmed that Mr. Al Zaidi, who also holds the position of commander-in-chief of the armed forces, is now overseeing the operations of the Iraqi National Intelligence Service. This transition occurred after a visit to the agency's headquarters in Baghdad. Hamid Al Shatri was removed from his post earlier this week, though authorities have not provided a public explanation for the dismissal.

According to an official statement, Prime Minister Al Zaidi's assumption of leadership for the intelligence agency underscores the "current challenges" confronting Iraq. This action is part of a broader governmental strategy to bolster state sovereignty. During his visit to the agency, Mr. Al Zaidi emphasized the critical need to enhance security and intelligence operations in light of a complex regional landscape, as reported by his office.

Hamid Al Shatri had been appointed as the intelligence chief in December 2024 by the then-prime minister, Mohammed Shia Al Sudani. Prior to this role, Mr. Al Shatri had led the National Security Service. Following Iraq's general election last November, Mr. Al Shatri was considered a potential candidate for prime minister during the coalition negotiations that ultimately led to Mr. Al Zaidi's premiership. As intelligence chief, Mr. Al Shatri had led multiple security delegations to Syria to engage in discussions on counter-terrorism and border security.

Prime Minister Al Zaidi's recent assumption of control over the agency follows his significant visit to Syria, where he held discussions with President Ahmad Al Shara. Baghdad is actively working to strengthen state authority and diminish the influence of armed groups operating outside government oversight, a persistent and sensitive issue central to Iraq's political and security discourse. Additionally, Mr. Al Zaidi faces considerable pressure from the United States to curb the activities of Iran-backed militias and to address corruption.

This development occurs during a period of heightened regional tensions, marked by attacks on security installations and renewed focus on the role of non-state armed factions. Since taking office in May, Prime Minister Al Zaidi has initiated a series of personnel changes, replacing the national security adviser and the heads of the National Security Service, the Counter-Terrorism Service, and the Federal Police.