Rasim Karim is an Iraqi journalist and media figure and a correspondent for Al-Nahrain Satellite TV who has been targeted by the authorities in connection with his reporting on corruption and public service failures in a context of increasing restrictions on media freedom in Iraq. Karim has been known for covering protest activities and exposing issues affecting local communities in Dhi Qar Governorate, including inadequate infrastructure and alleged corruption among officials. On 19 October 2025, security forces from the Dhi Qar Governorate Intelligence Directorate raided his home and arrested him in the early hours, in what appeared to be an attempt to intimidate him and silence his reporting. Prior to his arrest, Karim had published videos on 17 and 18 October 2025 highlighting poor public services and criticising local authorities for failing to fulfil their duties despite significant public budgets. On 22 February 2026, the Nasiriyah Misdemeanor Court sentenced Karim to one year in prison under Article 438 of the Iraqi Penal Code on charges of defamation against the mayor of Nasiriyah and other officials. According to reports, the case was linked either to his publication of critical material concerning local governance or to footage he recorded involving public officials, which was later circulated online. Karim had previously stated that he faced multiple lawsuits from government entities due to his journalistic work exposing corruption and covering protests.