Iraqi Agriculture Minister Abbas Al-Maliki has claimed that the recent surge in concerns over foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the country is driven by "electoral motives" aimed at unsettling the public. The minister made the statement on Thursday, addressing widespread fears and media reports about the disease.

Al-Maliki highlighted that FMD has been endemic in Iraq since 1954, with thousands of cases reported annually. In 2023 alone, more than 17,000 cases were recorded. However, he emphasized that the disease is now under control, with cases significantly declining due to the efforts of specialized teams.

"The extensive media coverage surrounding the disease has contributed to public panic and market disruptions," Al-Maliki stated. He reassured citizens that the situation is improving and urged the public not to be swayed by exaggerated reports.

The minister confirmed that as of now, there have been 5,000 reported FMD cases, a notable decrease compared to previous years. He also dismissed rumors of a plague outbreak as baseless, describing them as "part of a recurring media campaign ahead of parliamentary elections."

Al-Maliki's remarks come amid heightened public anxiety and speculation about the spread of FMD, a highly contagious viral disease affecting livestock. His comments suggest that the timing of the concerns may be politically motivated, with parliamentary elections on the horizon.

The Iraqi government continues to monitor the situation closely, with efforts focused on containing the disease and preventing further disruptions to the agricultural sector. Authorities have called for calm, urging the media to report responsibly and avoid spreading misinformation.

As the country prepares for upcoming elections, the minister's statements underscore the potential for health and agricultural issues to become politicized, raising concerns about the impact on public trust and stability.