Iraq’s Human Rights Commission has issued a stark warning about the growing menace of narcotics, particularly crystal meth smuggled from Iran and Captagon originating from Syria, which have become the most widespread drugs in the country. The Commission emphasized that these substances pose a severe and escalating threat to Iraqi society.

Recent data presented at the World Police Summit revealed that Iraq has seized nearly three tons of narcotics this year, underscoring its position as one of the nations most impacted by drug trafficking. Despite these challenges, the Iraqi Ministry of Interior reported that the country ranks third globally in combating drug traffickers and narcotics, reflecting intensified efforts by security forces.

In 2025 alone, Iraqi security forces have arrested more than 3,000 suspects linked to drug trafficking and abuse, with over 973 individuals sentenced. A recent operation in southern Iraq led to the seizure of approximately 40 kilograms of heroin, crystal meth, and Captagon, as well as the arrest of a major international trafficker.

The Human Rights Commission also identified hashish, marijuana, and heroin as significant contributors to Iraq’s worsening social problems, calling for urgent action to curb their spread.

Ali Nima, a member of Iraq’s parliamentary Security and Defense Committee, stated that security and intelligence forces have made "significant progress" in dismantling drug networks. He warned that the narcotics threat has now surpassed terrorism as a primary danger to Iraqi citizens.

Nima stressed the importance of regional and international cooperation in combating drug trafficking, noting that such collaboration is essential to safeguarding Iraq and the broader Middle East.

The Ministry of Interior has vowed to work "day and night" to combat drug smuggling and trafficking, pledging to dismantle both domestic and international networks fueling the trade. Authorities remain committed to intensifying raids, border controls, and public awareness campaigns to stem the flow of narcotics into the country.