Kurdish Journalist Detained by PMF on Espionage Charges, Later Released
Baghdad – 19 June 2025
Kurdish journalist Zhyar Raouf, a resident of Erbil and a producer for China’s international news agency CGTN, was detained by members of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF/Hashd al-Shaabi) near the Al-Muthanna Bridge in central Baghdad, reportedly on accusations of espionage for Israel and Mossad.
Rahman Gharib, director of Metro Center, said on Saturday:
“On the evening of the 19th of this month, at approximately 8:00 PM, Zhyar Raouf was arrested by PMF forces near the Muthanna Bridge in Baghdad. He was accused of espionage for Israel and Mossad. After coordinated efforts with relevant parties, he was released this morning around 3:00 AM.”
Gharib emphasized that the arrest was unlawful and violated journalist protection laws:
“They treated him contrary to the press law. They accessed his mobile phone and personal files, which is strictly prohibited under media legislation.”
Zhyar Raouf himself confirmed the incident, stating :
“I was detained Thursday night and released early Saturday morning.”
Raouf, aged 31, has been working in journalism since 2011 and is currently a producer with CGTN (China Global Television Network). He is known for his extensive experience in international media.77