Iraq sets penalties for those who attempt to harass tourists and visitors.

The Ministry of Interior announced on Monday the penalties for those who harass tourists and visitors.

Ministry spokesman Colonel Abbas al-Bahadli told the official news agency, as reported by Iraq Times, that "the Ministry has made significant strides to ensure lasting security in Iraq. These efforts have contributed to making Iraq an attractive destination for major Arab and foreign companies and investors, as well as boosting tourism and investment. This has had a positive impact on the economy recently, particularly over the past three years."

He added that "Iraq now boasts an attractive economic environment and a suitable environment for Arab and foreign tourism, thanks to its rich historical and cultural heritage and important religious, archaeological, and tourist sites." He emphasized "the Ministry of Interior's commitment to preserving the country's cultural and historical identity, ensuring a safe and suitable environment, and creating a healthy tourism environment for all visitors and tourists from around the world." He pointed out that "the Ministry of Interior's measures are deterrent and decisive against anyone who attempts to disrupt the atmosphere, undermine security efforts, or harass tourists and visitors," noting that "such behavior is alien and does not represent the culture of the Iraqi citizen."

He added that "the Ministry is working to firmly apply the law to anyone who harms the country's reputation, and its procedures are not limited to warnings and admonitions, but also include monitoring, surveillance, arrest, and accountability."

He explained that "Iraq has witnessed a remarkable improvement in international and regional reports and standards, as it has become one of the countries working to establish security and attract major companies and foreign tourism," indicating that "the Ministry of Interior has achieved a 98 percent completion rate of the government program."