An arrest warrant has been issued for a former Iraqi defense minister accused of corruption and abuse of power while working in Iraq's previous interi
By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
An arrest warrant has been issued for a former Iraqi defense minister accused of corruption and abuse of power while working in Iraq's previous interim government, which was installed by the United States last year, an official said Monday.
An attempt also was under way to strip the defendant, Hazem Shaalan, of the diplomatic immunity he now has against prosecution in such cases, the official said.
Shaalan, who served in the interim government of former Prime Minister Ayad Allawi, has denied allegations regarding the disappearance and misappropriation of US$1 billion in defense procurement funds during his tenure.