A new law quietly passed by the Iraqi parliament has sparked international criticism for its harsh penalties against gay and transgender individuals. The law, which amends existing anti-prostitution legislation, imposes severe prison sentences on those engaging in same-sex relations or undergoing gender-transition surgeries.
The legislation introduces penalties ranging from 10 to 15 years for same-sex relations and one to three years for gender-transition procedures. Additionally, it prohibits any organization promoting 'sexual deviancy,' with violators facing at least seven years in prison and a substantial fine.
