Ihab al-Sharif was the Egyptian ambassador-designate to Iraq and the first Arab ambassador to be named to Iraq following the fall of Saddam Hussein. The 51-year-old diplomat was kidnapped as he walked alone in Baghdad, seized by 7 armed men who drew up in 2 carloads.

An unauthenticated online statement issued on July 5 claimed the kidnapping on behalf of Al Qaeda, and displayed the kidnapped diplomat's ID. On the same day, there was an abduction attempt on Pakistan's ambassador to Iraq and a Bahranian diplomat.

On July 7th, following another online announcement, this one featuring the blindfolded diplomat speaking, the Egyptian government confirmed Ambassador al-Sharif's death. There was no explanation given as to what proof was provided for the diplomat's killing.

Ihab al-Sharif leaves behind his wife and two children.