AGP Executive Report

PMF Detentions in Baghdad: Iraqi security forces arrested Abu Jaafar, a senior Popular Mobilization Forces figure, during a raid in Baghdad, and later detained three more PMF-linked people in the Baladiyat area, with no clear charges disclosed. Hormuz Bottleneck Hits Iraq: Strait of Hormuz traffic has plunged by nearly 90%, with fewer than 20 commodity vessels crossing over the weekend, squeezing Iraq-linked shipments and pushing Baghdad to seek alternative export routes via Türkiye, Syria and Jordan. Iraq Pushes Iran-Saudi Security Link: Iraq proposed a unified security coordination council with Tehran and Riyadh, citing a “crisis of trust,” as regional tensions rise and drone/missile attacks continue to be blamed on Iran-backed actors. Militia Weapons Timeline Under Review: Iraq signals it will consolidate faction weapons under state control after the Sept. 30 coalition withdrawal, not by an earlier militia disarmament deadline—an approach analysts say could delay obligations. Oil Market Pressure: Oil prices slipped as investors brace for tougher US sanctions on Iran, keeping Hormuz disruptions and shipping risk at the center of energy pricing. Regional Talks, Mediation Efforts: Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir is set to visit Tehran for talks, as Islamabad continues to mediate between the US and Iran.

PMF vs ISIS: Iraq’s PMF repelled an ISIS attack on a Commando Regiment outpost in Tuz Khurmatu, Salah al-Din, forcing militants to retreat after a fierce battle; no PMF casualties reported. Electricity & corruption: Iraq is enrolling electricity ministry employees in an adult illiteracy program after a report said nearly 20,000 staff are illiterate, highlighting deeper grid decay and governance problems amid the wider Iran-US pressure fight. Korek Telecom standoff: A Baghdad court temporarily suspended CMC punitive decisions against Korek Telecom, keeping services running while the dispute heads toward a final ruling. KRI power debt discount: Kurdistan’s electricity ministry says the Runaki debt discount covers only pre-project arrears, with monthly Runaki bills due within 50 days. Foreign prisoner repatriation: Iraq moves to repatriate about 6,000 foreign inmates from 61 countries, excluding death-sentence convicts, with Syrians the largest group. Finance squeeze: CBI governor Nizar Nasser says reserves fell by about $31.5bn, warning salary pressures as Strait of Hormuz disruptions hit oil income. Suicide cases: Dhi Qar recorded two suicides in Shatra and Suq al-Shuyukh, as Interior Ministry data shows 617 suicides nationwide in the first half of 2026. Baghdad book fair: The 27th Baghdad International Book Fair runs Sept. 2-12 with 20 countries, including Qatar, and Oman as guest of honor.

US-Iran Sanctions Standoff: Iran condemned looming US economic sanctions, calling them “extraterritorial” and warning retaliation, while the US pushes “toughest sanctions in history” and threatens countries that provide Tehran “lifelines.” Strait of Hormuz Pressure: Iran’s top security chief Mohsen Rezaei warned the Strait will stay closed unless Washington changes course, threatening to target oil-shipping routes if neighbors join the US “economic war”; amid the chaos, Iran says it allowed some Iraqi oil tankers to transit after Baghdad requests. Iraq-US Coalition Deadline: Iraq reaffirmed it is fully prepared for the September 30 withdrawal of the US-led anti-ISIS coalition, calling it a “historic transformation.” Security Update (Saladin): PMF fighters repelled an ISIS attack on a security position in Tuz Khurmatu, triggering a joint search operation by Iraqi Army and PMF. Kurdistan Politics: A PDK leader urged the PKK and Turkey to keep their conflict away from Kurdistan territory, warning of displacement in border villages. Local Life & Services: SalamAir launched ticket sales for a new direct Muscat–Erbil route starting Oct. 25, and Iraq’s Electricity Ministry reviewed combined-cycle power projects with Shanghai Electric; UNDP/KOICA also launched a $10m resettlement initiative for displaced communities in Anbar, Kirkuk, Ninewa and Salah al-Din.

Death Penalty Backlog: Iraqi President Nizar Amedi says more than 14,000 death sentences are pending at the presidency, calling it a long-running constitutional issue after a committee review. Media Crackdown: Iraq’s communications regulator (CMC) issued at least 18 2026 bans and suspensions, including 10- and 15-day program shutdowns and host bans tied to alleged incitement and violations. Security Sweep: Baghdad police seized rifles, grenades, and ammunition in Hay al-Kufa, arresting two wanted suspects and detaining 145 for residency violations. Hormuz Oil Update: Amedi says Iran has facilitated some Iraqi oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, as Baghdad seeks export stability amid regional tensions. State vs Weapons: Amedi reiterates only the state should hold weapons, while PMF disarmament talks face political friction. Internet Push: Earthlink says satellite internet via Starlink can reach remote areas, while the communications minister moves toward joint 5G activation with Erbil. Finance Pressure: Parliament will hear the finance minister on Iraq’s financial crisis after salary and pension payment disruptions. Kurdish Culture: The Kurdish Book Fair in Sulaimaniyah was extended after 30,000+ books sold.

US-Iran Sanctions Clash: Iran’s foreign ministry says new U.S. sanctions are an “assertion of extraterritorial sovereignty,” warning secondary penalties have no basis in international law as Washington prepares “the toughest sanctions in history” and targets countries providing Iran “lifelines.” Hormuz Pressure on Iraq’s Energy: With Strait of Hormuz shipping nearly stalled, the fight is spilling into regional trade and oil flows, keeping Iraq’s export routes and costs under strain. Iran-Iraq Politics: Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf says Iran won’t interfere in Iraq’s internal affairs, backs Iraq’s push to integrate militias under state control, and calls for stronger economic ties. Baghdad Reforms: Iraq’s ration card system is set for automation, and the government is also planning one million residential land plots. Economy Watch: Iraq recorded a $16bn budget deficit in the first half of 2026, as spending outpaced revenues. Trade Routes: Iraqi trucks are joining TIR transit operations via the Saudi-Arar corridor, aiming to add non-oil income as sea routes wobble.

Energy Diplomacy: Saudi Arabia’s energy and finance ministers met Iraq’s finance and oil chiefs to boost gas, electricity, and wider energy security cooperation. Militia Disarmament Deadline: Iraq reaffirmed Sept. 30 as the deadline to bring weapons under state control, saying talks with six armed factions are progressing through dialogue. Oil Arbitration Update: Kirkuk Governor said Iraq and Türkiye agreed to defer a $1.471B arbitration payment, with settlement options tied to Iraqi crude exports. Security & Drugs: Al-Anbar dismantled a 50-member crystal meth and pill network; Maysan security operations arrested 28 and broke up eight drug distribution networks. Kurdistan & International Recognition: Nechirvan Barzani welcomed a Vatican honor for Masoud Barzani, framing it as recognition of peace and tolerance. Football Admin: FIFA lifted Najaf FC’s registration ban after payments were cleared. Maritime Risk: Two pirate hijackings off Yemen and Somalia involved 22 Indian sailors, with authorities saying crews are safe. Regional Tensions Over Hormuz: Iraq is pushing alternative export routes as Strait of Hormuz disruptions continue, while Iran and the US trade escalating economic threats.

Iraq Development & Investment: Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi urged faster work on the Development Road, pushing industrial cities, airports and rail links to speed up projects and boost the economy. Border & Trade Rules: Iraq’s cabinet approved IQD 15 billion for upgrades at three border crossings (Rabia, Al-Waleed, Safwan), and new customs rules will require importers to pre-pay duties and estimated taxes from 1 October 2026. Water & Utilities Projects: Iraq moved ahead on water needs with filtration and desalination support for Maysan and talks with the Czech Republic on water-treatment cooperation. Housing Finance: Loans for Bismayah apartment contractors are set to be released via Rafidain Bank after NIC and Finance Ministry coordination. Regional Pressure on Oil: Oil prices edged down but stayed on track for a second weekly rise as the stalled U.S.-Iran conflict keeps supply disruptions in focus, with Iraq repeatedly named among affected producers. Kurdistan Security: Iraq and the KRG continue to react to the drone attack on PM Barzani’s office, with investigations and demands for explanations ongoing. Piracy Risk to Iraq-linked Shipping: Two vessels carrying 22 Indian nationals were hijacked by pirates off Yemen and Somalia; one tanker included an Iraqi crew member, with authorities saying the crew is safe.

Kurdistan Security & Drones: Kurdistan Region officials say two Iranian explosive-laden drones hit PM Masrour Barzani’s office and the intelligence chief’s residence in Erbil, with Tehran denying involvement and calling it a “false flag,” while Erbil says it is seeking an official explanation and coordinating with Baghdad. Militia Weapons Deadline: Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf backed Iraq’s push to bring weapons under state control ahead of a Sept. 30 deadline, as Iraq’s political blocs clash over how disarmament should work. Oil Routes Beyond Hormuz: Iraq is accelerating plans to diversify exports, with officials pointing to upgrading the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline toward Türkiye and parallel links toward Syria and western Iraq to reduce reliance on the Strait of Hormuz. Parliament Oversight: Iraq’s Security and Defense Committee says senior officials failed to show up for a hearing on the government’s response to US-Saudi strikes on PMF sites, raising questions about missed evacuation measures. Anti-Corruption & Finance: Authorities detained a Saladin Traffic Directorate employee over alleged embezzlement of over 1.15 billion dinars, continuing a wider crackdown on corruption. Housing Relief: Iraq’s National Investment Commission says thousands of eligible Bismayah buyers will finally receive long-delayed housing loans via Rafidain Bank after PM Ali al-Zaidi intervened. Telecom Crackdown: Iraq’s media regulator shut down Korek Telecom centers in Baghdad, escalating pressure on the Kurdistan-based operator.

Iraq’s Economy & Energy: Baghdad approved new mechanisms to export crude via domestic and international firms through multiple outlets starting Sept. 1, alongside expanded transport authorizations and pipeline/loading work to keep supplies steady. It also approved crude pricing reforms and a plan to cut fuel subsidies from Sept. 1, lifting subsidies across sectors while protecting key citizen fuels. Oil Market Shock: Brent rose for a fifth straight session as Hormuz risks keep supply worries elevated, with shipping disruption still tightening flows. Regional Pressure on Iraq: Iran is pushing proposals to prevent a clash with Tehran-aligned Iraqi armed factions before a Sept. 30 disarmament deadline, including ideas like freezing or concealing heavy weapons. Security & State Control: The PMF law is set for parliamentary approval “in the coming days,” as Baghdad continues its weapons restriction push. Governance & Rights: Iraq’s media regulator barred former lawmaker Sajjad Salem from appearing on local and foreign outlets for 90 days over alleged misleading remarks. Health System Strain: Iraq’s healthcare sector faces a potential crisis as funding shortfalls threaten medicines, emergency services, and operating rooms. World Humanitarian Day: Iraq marked World Humanitarian Day, recalling the 2003 Baghdad bombing that killed humanitarian workers.

Iraq-Iran Diplomacy: Iraqi PM Ali al-Zaidi met Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf in Baghdad as both sides pushed broader cooperation and regional coordination, with Ghalibaf praising Iran’s support during Iraq’s fight against ISIS and thanking Baghdad for facilitating Arbaeen pilgrimage logistics. Anti-Corruption Crackdown: Iraq’s Integrity Commission arrested the director of Al-Tali’a Municipality in Babil plus four officials over alleged manipulation of property registration receipts and misuse of public funds, while another Babil case targets five municipal officials. Local Accountability in Babil & Dhi Qar: In Dhi Qar, a wanted municipal employee escaped during an arrest attempt amid claims of hidden wealth and multiple warrants. Security & Weapons Control: Iraq’s National Security Advisor said the “restricting weapons to the state” program aims to stabilize the country and attract international investment ahead of an end-September deadline for armed groups to hand over weapons. Defense Readiness Concern: A lawmaker warned that 50,000 tank shells were destroyed at Camp Taji during Arbaeen, urging an investigation into who did it and why. Regional Pressure from the Iran War: Iran’s parliament speaker also reiterated that the US must meet conditions before Hormuz reopening, while US-Iran tensions continue to shape Iraq’s security environment. Counter-ISIS Operations: Iraq’s Military Intelligence said it captured two ISIS members in Mosul and Salahaddin.

Iraq Oil Exports: Iraq’s plan to rebuild an Iraq-Syria pipeline to ship crude via Syria—partly bypassing the Strait of Hormuz—could take about four years and cost around $15bn, Reuters reports, as Baghdad scrambles for new export routes after Hormuz disruptions hit output and budgets. Kurdistan Drone Tensions: Iran-linked drones reportedly struck the office of Iraqi Kurdistan PM Masrour Barzani in Erbil, with Tehran denying involvement and calling it a “false flag,” while Saudi Arabia condemned the attack as a violation of Iraq’s sovereignty. Regional Diplomacy: Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf arrived in Baghdad for talks focused on security cooperation, border issues, counterterrorism, and economic ties, with a key agenda item tied to securing passage for Iraqi oil exports through Hormuz. Security Spillover: Israel carried out airstrikes on Syria’s Abu al-Duhur airbase in Idlib; the US called it “unnecessary escalation,” and Turkey rejected claims linking the strikes to Turkish troop deployment. Domestic Shock: A major fuel depot fire in Sulaymaniyah injured at least 30 people after explosions in flammable tanks.

Iraq–Kurdistan Security: Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi condemned drone attacks on Erbil that targeted Masrour Barzani’s office and the Parastin protection director’s residence, saying any threat to KRG security is a threat to Iraq’s national security, with authorities ordered to investigate and prosecute. Regional Tensions: Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is set to visit Iraq on Wednesday for talks on cooperation and stability, as the wider US-Iran standoff and militia weapons deadlines keep pressure on Baghdad. Kurdistan Safety: In Sulaimaniyah, fires at a fuel storage facility and near the governor’s office injured at least 41 people; Masrour Barzani urged tighter safeguards and faster recovery efforts. Energy Routes: Lebanese officials met an Iraqi delegation in Beirut to revive the Kirkuk–Tripoli pipeline as an alternative export corridor to reduce reliance on the Strait of Hormuz, with short-term logistics and border upgrades underway. Economy Watch: Iraq’s long-debated plan to remove three zeros from the dinar is back in focus, with lawmakers weighing a redenomination law amid liquidity and salary pressures. Human Cost: Reports claim Pakistani youths trafficked to Iraq were tortured in detention, with families alleging electric shocks and demanding urgent investigation and consular help.

Kurdistan Drone Crisis: Iran denied involvement and called the Erbil drone attack on KRG PM Masrour Barzani’s office a “false flag,” while Baghdad formed an investigation committee and Iraq’s PM ordered probes; the UAE also condemned the strike as a violation of Iraqi and KRG sovereignty. US-Iran Deadlock: With the 60-day MoU deadline over, Washington said it won’t extend the ceasefire and Trump threatened Oman if it “gets in the way,” as Iran warned it will shift to a “fully offensive” posture and could strike to break a blockade. Oil & Routes: Basrah crude prices rose as supply fears returned; Iraq is also reviving plans to diversify exports, including a Kirkuk–Tripoli pipeline push and an Iraq–Syria bypass pipeline expected to take about four years and cost at least $15bn. Economy Watch: Iraq is again debating deleting two zeros from the dinar amid budget strain and disrupted exports. Safety & Rights: A major fuel depot blaze in Sulaimaniyah injured around 20; Human Rights Watch reported a man died in police drug-unit custody after being removed from hospital care.

Kurdistan Drone Crisis: Two Iranian Hadid-110 drones hit the office of KRG PM Masrour Barzani and the residence of the region’s intelligence chief in Erbil, with no casualties reported; Barzani called it a dangerous escalation. Baghdad-Tehran Tension: Iraq’s FM Fuad Hussein pressed Iran to clarify its position, while Iran’s foreign ministry said the strikes look “highly suspicious” and warned against false-flag plots. Federal Response: Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi ordered an investigation and Iraq’s parliament condemned the attacks, urging Baghdad to protect sovereignty and keep the country out of regional conflict. US-Iran Deadline Fallout: As the 60-day MoU window expired, the Strait of Hormuz remained disrupted, with shipping traffic down sharply and new threats flying, including Trump’s warning to bomb Oman if it interferes. Anti-Corruption & Services: Rasheed Bank denied involvement in the “ghost employees” payroll case; Iraq also dismissed a Baghdad fuel distribution official and announced literacy steps for thousands of Electricity Ministry employees lacking qualifications. Energy Diversification: Lebanon hosted talks to revive the Kirkuk-Tripoli pipeline as Iraq seeks alternatives to Hormuz, while Reuters reports an Iraq-Syria pipeline could take four years and cost at least $15bn.

Iraq’s Energy Pivot: Iraqi and Lebanese officials met in Beirut to revive the historic Kirkuk–Tripoli oil pipeline, with Lebanon set to act as a storage and re-export hub as Baghdad seeks new export routes to the Mediterranean and less reliance on the Strait of Hormuz. Anti-Corruption Push: Iraq’s crackdown continues as a former MP, Kadhim al-Sayadi, was arrested in Erbil on extortion charges, following a wave of high-profile detentions tied to Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s campaign. US-Iran Deadlock: As the 60-day US-Iran MoU deadline expired, reports say Tehran used the talks window to prepare for wider escalation, while Washington presses for Hormuz-related arrangements. Regional Security Fallout: Iran’s army chief Amir Hatami announced a $30,000 bounty for capturing or killing US soldiers, with women promised double—raising tensions as negotiations stall. Baghdad’s Farmers: Iraq’s trade minister pledged to pay farmers’ outstanding dues after parliament pressure, as wheat procurement and seasonal payments remain a key domestic issue.

Iraq’s Anti-Corruption Drive: An Iraqi court sentenced former Saladin Governor Ammar Jabr to seven years over illicit enrichment, as authorities press ahead with financial accountability cases. Kurdistan Electricity Relief: In Erbil, more than 170,000 people have used a legacy-debt discount under the Runaki electricity project, with the waiver running until Sept. 10. U.S.-Iran Tensions Spill Into Iraq: Reports say the Trump administration used Iraq’s Kurdistan leader Nechirvan Barzani as a secret backchannel to the IRGC, while Iran again warned it will not hand over the Strait of Hormuz. Regional Energy Routes: Lebanon and Iraq discussed reviving the Kirkuk–Tripoli pipeline to diversify exports toward the Mediterranean, including upgrades for storage, borders, and safety. Security and Governance in Kurdistan: KDP and PUK leaders plan more meetings away from media as government formation remains stalled. U.S. Carrier Scrutiny: U.S. lawmakers renewed calls for oversight over conditions aboard USS Abraham Lincoln, as CENTCOM chief visited the ship amid morale and supply concerns. Baghdad Digital Press Focus: Iraq’s sovereignty, corruption enforcement, power and oil logistics, and the Iran-related security pressure shaping daily life.