US-Iraq Withdrawal: Iraqi PM Ali al-Zaidi reaffirmed Sept. 30 as the “fixed and final” deadline for the end of the US-led coalition mission and the departure of its forces, with Iraq preparing to assume full responsibility for security. Air Defense Readiness: Ahead of that transition, Zaidi ordered a boost to Iraq’s air defense capabilities, directing upgrades and resources to protect Iraqi airspace and sovereignty. Armed Groups & State Control: The withdrawal timeline is tied to Baghdad’s push to move weapons under exclusive state control, as officials warn Iraq will not allow its territory to be used to threaten neighbors. Security Operations in Baghdad: Iraqi Interior Ministry forces seized 20+ locally made drones and arrested four suspects in Baghdad, after earlier efforts to disrupt drone manufacturing. Baghdad Command Reshuffle: Major General Hadi Sarheid al-Kinani was appointed Baghdad Operations Commander, replacing Walid Khalifa. Kurdistan Fuel & Oil Dispute: Erbil says it is entitled to more than twice the crude allocation for local consumption, while Baghdad discusses fuel support if KRG shares its designated crude. Customs Deal: Erbil and Baghdad reached a “final agreement” on implementing the ASYCUDA customs system and settling outstanding customs disputes. Yazidi Heritage & Rebuilding: A Baghdad forum focused on Yazidi history, heritage, and the political will needed for Sinjar and Nineveh reconstruction and return. Regional Energy Route Talks: Lebanese officials met an Iraqi delegation in Beirut to revive the Kirkuk–Tripoli pipeline as Iraq seeks alternative export corridors beyond Hormuz. Saudi-Iran Tensions Spillover: An Iraqi security delegation is set to visit Saudi Arabia to discuss drone attacks and security concerns amid heightened Baghdad-Riyadh strain.