Iraqi Forces Arrest Three Suspected ISIS Operatives in Diyala and Anbar

Iraqi security forces have arrested three suspected ISIS operatives in separate security operations in Diyala and Anbar governorates, according to statements from the country’s security agencies.

The operations, announced on Saturday, August 15, involved Iraq’s Military Intelligence Directorate and Counter Terrorism Service and were carried out following intelligence gathering, surveillance and the issuance of arrest warrants.

Two Suspects Arrested in Diyala

The Military Intelligence Directorate said security forces apprehended two suspected ISIS operatives in Diyala Governorate in northeastern Iraq. Military equipment was also seized during the operation.

According to the directorate, arrest warrants had been issued against the two suspects under Article 4(1) of Iraq’s Anti-Terrorism Law. They were subsequently referred to the competent authorities for further legal proceedings.

Third Suspect Detained in Anbar

In a separate operation, Iraq’s Counter Terrorism Service announced the arrest of another suspected ISIS operative in Anbar Governorate.

The service said the arrest followed precise intelligence and field surveillance, as Iraqi authorities continue operations aimed at identifying and detaining suspected members of the group.

Security Operations Continue Against ISIS Cells

Iraq declared military victory over ISIS in 2017 after the group lost the large areas of territory it had once controlled. Security forces have nevertheless continued intelligence-led operations against remaining cells and suspected operatives.

Recent operations have focused on locating suspects, disrupting networks and preventing remnants of the group from rebuilding operational capacity.

Key Points

•    Three suspected ISIS operatives were arrested in separate Iraqi security operations.
•    Two suspects were detained in Diyala Governorate and military equipment was seized.
•    The Diyala arrests followed warrants issued under Article 4(1) of Iraq’s Anti-Terrorism Law.
•    A third suspect was apprehended in Anbar after intelligence gathering and field surveillance.
•    The detainees are subject to further legal procedures by the competent Iraqi authorities.

Editorial note: The description of the detainees as ISIS operatives is attributed to Iraqi security authorities. The QNA report did not provide names or additional details about the allegations against the suspects.

Source: Qatar News Agency (QNA), August 15, 2026, citing Iraq’s Military Intelligence Directorate and Counter Terrorism Service. Rewritten and restructured for publication.