New Anti-Terrorism Bill Includes Terrorist List and Tougher Penalties

mniraq - The Parliamentary Legal Committee revealed on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, the main features of the new Anti-Terrorism Law draft, which has completed its first reading in Parliament. The committee confirmed that the proposed legislation would repeal the current Law No. 13 of 2005. Legal Committee member MP Mohammed Al-Khafaji said the new draft is broader than the previous legislation and contains extensive provisions, including a detailed definition of terrorism crimes and an expanded classification of terrorist acts, accompanied by stricter penalties. The draft also provides for the establishment of a list of individuals classified as terrorists, with the Public Prosecution responsible for adding names to the list. Those included would face restrictions on several rights, including travel, passport issuance, and employment. The proposed legislation includes a range of severe penalties, from the death penalty to life or temporary imprisonment depending on the criminal act. The provisions are expected to be subject to amendments and observations following the second reading and review by the relevant parliamentary committees.