Iraq probes US flag desecration during Sovereignty Day parade

Iraqi security officers flash victory signs during a parade celebrating the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq, in Baghdad, Iraq, September 30, 2026. Photo: Hadi Mizban/AP Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi ordered on Sunday the formation of an investigative committee in response to an incident in which a US flag was desecrated during the recent parade marking the Sovereignty Day in Baghdad. The spokesperson for the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Sabah al-Numan, confirmed that the individuals involved in the incident had already been arrested. According to reports, military vehicles of Iran-backed Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) were filmed driving over large US and Israeli flags laid across the roadway during parade processions marking “Sovereignty Day,” which commemorates the end of the US-led international coalition’s mission in Iraq. The footage gained international attention after US Congressman Joe Wilson shared it on social media, publicly criticizing Iraq’s state sovereignty. Al-Zaidi, as commander-in-chief, strongly denounced the crime, highlighting the legal and diplomatic need to respect friendly countries’ emblems and authorized foreign embassies. The prime minister urged the committee to conclude its work quickly so that those involved can face legal responsibility under Iraqi law.