AGP Executive Report

Border Reopening Plan: Iraq’s Security Media Cell says three crossings with Iran—Shalamsheh (Basra), al-Shib (Maysan), and Mandali (Diyala)—will reopen in stages after a drone attack blamed on launches from Iraq’s border area. Passenger entry resumes now, while trade restarts later this week (Shalamcheh and al-Shib first, Mandali next). Accountability in Missan: Baghdad also moved to tighten security after the attack, including dismissing the Maysan operations commander and police chief and agreeing to a joint probe with Iran. Regional Energy Shock: The Saudi East-West pipeline was shut after drone strikes traced to Iraq, adding fresh pressure to already strained oil routes as Houthis expand pressure in Yemen and attacks ripple toward the Red Sea and Hormuz. Energy Investment at Home: Iraq signed a 25-year deal to develop the Ajil oilfield, aiming to raise gas and oil output and support electricity generation. Clean Power for Nineveh: Mosul University is preparing a €40M, 30-megawatt solar project to cut costs and feed surplus power into the grid.

Saudi-Iraq Pipeline Crisis: Iraq says drones that hit Saudi Arabia’s East-West oil pipeline were launched from Iraqi territory, after Baghdad seized a drone-launch platform, dismissed a Maysan commander, and launched a wider hunt that included closing three Iran border crossings and approving a joint Iran probe into newly found launch sites near the border. Regional Energy Shock: Saudi Arabia shut the pipeline “as a precaution,” warning of injuries and damage while global markets brace for higher prices as Houthis tighten their grip near Bab al-Mandeb and Red Sea shipping faces renewed risk. Diplomatic Fallout: Trump publicly blamed Iran for the attack while also saying the Houthis asked the U.S. not to intervene; meanwhile regional governments and Arab and Islamic bodies condemned the pipeline strike as a breach of sovereignty and international law. Iraqi Political Watch: With Baghdad governor Atwan Al-Atwani’s retirement under review, sources say several potential successors are emerging amid shifting alliances inside the Baghdad Provincial Council. Sports & Governance: FIFA confirmed Gulf Cup matches will count as official international fixtures, with Iraq set to compete in Jeddah later this month.

Saudi-Iraq Pipeline Crisis: Saudi Arabia shut its East-West oil pipeline after drones launched from Iraq hit sections near Riyadh and Medina, causing injuries and damage; Riyadh said it paused retaliation at Baghdad’s request while reserving the right to respond. Baghdad Accountability Measures: Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi dismissed the Maysan Operations commander, ordered investigations into the province’s security structure, and later closed several border crossings for security checks, while keeping key Iran crossings open for passengers. Regional Fallout and Diplomacy: Lebanon’s foreign ministry condemned the attack as a violation of UN and international humanitarian law, while Iraq’s Kurdistan leadership and Pakistan also backed investigations and condemned the use of Iraqi territory for threats. Iran-Houthi Pressure on Energy Routes: The pipeline shutdown comes as Houthis advance around the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb, raising fears of further disruption to global oil flows; Iran also announced Gulf talks in Oman on Strait of Hormuz security. Militia Disarmament Track: Iraq also moved on Sinjar’s YBS Yazidi militia, confirming weapons handover and integration steps into state forces.

Saudi-Iraq Pipeline Crisis: Saudi Arabia shut down its East-West oil pipeline in Riyadh and Madinah after “multiple” drone attacks, saying the drones were launched from Iraq; Riyadh said it would not retaliate for now after a request from Iraqi PM Ali al-Zaidi, while also reserving the right to protect sovereignty and critical infrastructure. Iraqi Accountability Move: Iraq dismissed a senior military commander tied to the attacks and opened an investigation, with officials stressing Baghdad rejects any use of its territory to harm Saudi security and stability. Regional Energy Pressure: The pipeline outage comes as Houthis tighten control around the Bab el-Mandeb shipping chokepoint, raising fears of further disruption; the IEA warned the 2026 oil supply gap could widen as Middle East conflict delays normal flows. Security Crackdown in Iraq: Iraqi authorities in Anbar seized 47 drones and 46 projectiles in a prepared site, linking the haul to efforts to keep weapons under state control. 9/11 Commemoration: Across the U.S., ceremonies marked the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11, with renewed focus on how the post-9/11 era reshaped military and border security and fueled Islamophobia.

Sanctions on Iran-backed proxies: The US Treasury announced “Economic Outcast” measures targeting networks supporting Hezbollah and Iraq’s Kata’ib Hezbollah, naming companies and individuals across Iraq, Lebanon, the UAE and Türkiye and accusing them of funding, logistics and sanctions-evasion. Iraqi youth and culture: In Baghdad, MP Dr. Ahmed Al-Muburqa launched the Golden Obelisk Arts Foundation and preparations for the Iraq International Youth Film Festival, framing arts institutions as a youth investment. 9/11 remembrance with a long shadow: Across the US, officials and communities marked the 25th anniversary with ceremonies at Ground Zero and the Pentagon, while new attention fell on post-attack health deaths and the enduring political and security legacy. Aviation disruption in the Gulf: Dubai International Airport said it remains open and operating despite delays and cancellations tied to regional tensions, with some routes adjusted and services cut. War-on-terror debate: Commentary and analysis revisited how the post-9/11 security state, surveillance and foreign policy shifts reshaped politics and trust—echoing debates Iraqis also feel through the region’s wars and militia dynamics.

Sanctions & Iran-Linked Militias: The U.S. Treasury expanded “Operation Economic Outcast,” sanctioning networks tied to Kata’ib Hizballah and Hezbollah across Iraq and the region, and tightening Iran licensing with a presumption of denial. Regional Security Talks: Kuwait’s acting PM and interior chief met Iraqi and U.S. delegations to review security and defense cooperation amid regional escalation. Iraq-Kurdistan Command Dispute: In Erbil, Asaib Ahl al-Haq leader Qais al-Khazali said Peshmerga are constitutionally recognized but must obey the Iraqi commander-in-chief, as the September 30 disarmament deadline nears. Turkey-Iraq Cooperation: Türkiye’s intelligence chief met Iraq’s parliament speaker in Ankara, discussing security ties plus water, reconstruction, housing, and the Development Road project. Oil & Energy Spotlight: China-backed firms showcased technology at Iraq’s oil and gas expo, while Baghdad also pushed oil-export coordination and capacity plans. Kurdistan Peshmerga Unification: Reports say KRG moved ahead with Peshmerga force unification under a single command. 9/11 Anniversary Context: Multiple pieces marked the 25th anniversary, including renewed debate over the post-9/11 wars’ political and security fallout.

Coalition Exit & Sovereignty: Iraq expects the US-led coalition’s mission to end on Sept. 30, with Baghdad pushing to speed up bringing armed factions’ weapons under state control and stressing no Iraqi territory will be used to target other countries. Security & Governance: The Iraqi government says air-defense upgrades are a priority, with systems from South Korea, Türkiye and the US expected soon, while officials warn against sectarian rhetoric and rumor-mongering. Kurdistan Budget Talks: Erbil pressed Baghdad for a fair constitutional share of the 2027 federal budget, including oil revenues, investment funds and international financing, during meetings in Baghdad. KRG Electricity Relief: More than 750,000 electricity beneficiaries in the Kurdistan Region used the e-Psule system to claim a 50% discount on legacy debts, with the deadline set for Sept. 10. Cabinet Deadlock: Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi’s remaining ministerial appointments are likely to be finalized after his mid-September trip to Europe, as disputes still hold up Defense, Interior and other portfolios. Legal/Markets: A Najaf butcher was arrested over alleged wild-boar meat sold as minced meat; legal experts say Iraqi law lacks an explicit pork ban but fraud and unsafe-food rules apply. Culture: Iraq’s “Jidariyat Matar (Mural of Rain)” won Best Screenplay at a short-film festival in Alexandria, produced by the Political Prisoners Foundation.

Digital Economy Push: Iraq’s Ministry of Agriculture is studying a digital platform to connect farmers directly with local and international markets, aiming for real-time prices, fairer returns, safer payments, and better delivery guarantees. Energy Sector Modernization: Iraq’s General Company for Gas Filling and Services in Baghdad has launched two new operations centres and an electronic gas movement tracking system, including a Security Operations Centre and a Technology Operations Centre, as part of the Ministry of Oil’s digital drive. Jobs and Rights Agenda: Iraq signed a four-year “Decent Work” programme (2026-2029) with trade unions, industry groups, and the ILO, focusing on skills, inclusive employment, economic diversification, and stronger workers’ rights and social protection. Oil and Security Context: Regional tensions tied to the Iran conflict continue to ripple through Gulf shipping and oil flows, with analysts warning Iran is targeting US naval forces and commercial vessels to pressure blockade enforcement and disrupt maritime routes.

Militia Disarmament Deadline: Iraqi PM Ali al-Zaidi faces a credibility test after pledging to disarm Iran-backed Shi’ite militias by Sept. 30, the same date tied to the remaining US-led coalition withdrawal—yet Iran’s proxies have repeatedly resisted past commitments, raising fears of renewed friction with Washington. US-Iran Sea Escalation: The Gulf conflict is intensifying as US and IRGC forces trade strikes on warships and oil tankers, reviving “Tanker War” risks for shipping and energy markets. Fuel Crisis in Mosul: Security forces dispersed truck drivers protesting fuel shortages near the Al-Shamsiyat checkpoint, while Diyala’s offices report power cuts and generator-fuel strain linked to disrupted shipments. Iraq-Iran Trade Push: Iraq and Iran trade could reach $20B annually if banking and procedural barriers ease, with Iraq already topping $10B in 2025. Displacement Pressure: IOM says over one million Iraqis remain internally displaced and need housing, documents, and services, as climate and water scarcity add new mobility pressures. Kurdistan Border Security: Iraq and KRG agreed a 17-point security plan, including reviewing border crossings and targeting smugglers and terrorist remnants. Shengal Rejection: Yazidis in Shengal marched against plans for a military administrator, insisting decisions must follow local constitutional authority. Oil Revenue Squeeze: A petroleum economist warns Tehran’s Hormuz transit tolls may take nearly a third of Iraq’s oil earnings, amid US sanctions concerns. Basra Prison Health: Human rights monitors urged a full disinfection campaign at overcrowded Basra Central Prison as illnesses rise. Legal Framework for Syria Transfers: Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council set a unified process for foreign detainees and convicts transferred from Syria, moving cases toward trial under Iraqi law and reciprocity.

Iraq’s AI push: The Iraqi National Security Service launched an “Distinguish the Fake” AI detection platform in Erbil to help citizens spot fabricated images, doctored videos, and dubbed audio amid rising digital misinformation. Media crackdown: Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission warned political analyst Abdullah al-Khuraybit and extended a ban on analyst Auras al-Hamad al-Mashhadani, warning outlets that host him will face legal responsibility. Baghdad-Tehran coordination: Iraqi authorities took custody of Iraq Al-Hadath director Bilal al-Maliki at Najaf airport after Iran detained him at Baghdad’s request, with questioning planned in Baghdad. Regional security spillover: In Semnan, Iran, Iraqi students reported repeated dormitory attacks and street assaults, prompting a month-long emergency break while Iranian authorities investigate. Energy and economy: Iraq said oil exports have rebounded to above 3 million bpd as it works to restore routes and expand refining, while projects were approved to add about 140,000 bpd to Diwaniyah and Maysan refineries. Tourism drive: Iraq’s tourism and antiquities officials renewed calls for a national strategy to turn heritage sites into a stronger economic engine, citing gaps in infrastructure and services.

Gold Reserves: Iraq stayed 28th globally among gold holders after adding one tonne to reach 175.6 tonnes, with gold now about 24.8% of total reserves. US Withdrawal Timeline: Ammar al-Hakim said the US-led coalition withdrawal will start as scheduled in late September, calling it a sign of Iraqi recovery. Media Detention: Iran detained the owner of Iraq Al-Hadath TV in Mashhad at Baghdad’s request, with authorities coordinating his return for legal proceedings. Fuel and Food Pressure: Wasit farmers protested diesel price hikes and delayed crop payments, while Baghdad drivers again queued as gasoline supplies tightened amid regional disruptions. Finance Ministry Shake-up: Iraq’s Finance Ministry ordered administrative changes, including leadership reshuffles tied to stalled personnel moves. Hate Speech Crackdown: A military-linked committee will monitor sectarian and ethnic incitement, with courts set to decide legal action. Healthcare Funding Gap: The Health Ministry says it needs $6.84B to cover debts, contracts, and medicines. Regional Security Talks: Erbil and Baghdad discussed counternarcotics cooperation with UNODC. Turkey-Iraq Cooperation: Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş pushed for faster rollout of the Development Road Project and said PKK disarmament and weapon surrender to Iraq’s central government will begin in October. Oilfield Labor Tension: West Qurna-2 staff in Basra threatened a strike over contract regularization and overdue wages, warning of production and export disruption. Airspace Status: Iraq ruled out closing national airspace and said it activated alternate international routes and new destinations.

Strait of Hormuz Debate: Qatar’s foreign ministry adviser Majed Al Ansari said Hormuz will stay vital for global trade, pushing back on US Treasury claims it could become “worthless” in two years as Gulf states expand land pipelines and trucking. Iraq–Turkey Energy Deal: Iraq and Turkey agreed on a joint oil refinery in Ceyhan under a renewed pipeline framework, aiming to boost refined exports to Europe. Northern Exports Update: Kirkuk and KRI crude exports via the Iraq–Turkey route held around 220,000 bpd, offering an alternative as Hormuz disruptions bite. Baghdad Housing Crackdown: Baghdad’s municipality faces calls to pause demolition/removal of homes built on agricultural land, with officials warning against clearing orchards and unplanned urban sprawl. Jobs for Graduates: PM Ali al-Zaidi ordered permanent and contract hiring for long-waiting graduates through the federal budget, amid ongoing protests. Security & Crime: Iraqi forces detained a suspected drug network leader in Babil after clashes, seizing drugs and weapons. Kurdistan Budget Talks: KRG finance officials are in Baghdad to negotiate the 2027 federal budget share. Environment Watch: Aynda warned air pollution in Iraq and the KRI is worsening, citing unregulated refineries, vehicle emissions, generators, and waste burning. IS Detention Transfers: Turkey repatriated 184 nationals from Iraq prisons, including key fugitives tied to IS networks.

Jerusalem File: The Arab Ministerial Committee, chaired by Jordan with Iraq among members, condemned “unprecedented” Israeli escalation at Al-Aqsa and urged intensified international pressure to preserve Jerusalem’s historical and legal status quo. Kurdistan Under Fire: Iran carried out drone attacks on Kurdish Iranian opposition camps in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region, including the Komala camp in Surdash near Sulaymaniyah, with reports of fires but no casualties. Iraq Courts & Land: Iraq’s Federal Supreme Court upheld Nineveh Provincial Council’s decision lifting construction restrictions in Qaza Fakhra and Jliyokhan on the Nineveh Plains, ending years of limits affecting families and property owners. Arms Monopoly Push: Iraq’s top judiciary chief, Judge Faiq Zidan, met the newly appointed U.S. chargé d’affaires, Stephen Fagin, to back Iraq’s plan to restrict arms possession to state authorities. Health Watch: Erbil’s Nanakali Hospital says it records 1,500–1,800 new cancer cases annually and treats up to 400 patients a day, citing support for rare medications. Finance & Governance: The Central Bank reassured depositors that most banking deposits are guaranteed, while a report said political pressure is blocking administrative changes at the Finance Ministry. Regional Diplomacy: Egypt and Iraq’s foreign ministers called for dialogue to reduce polarization and conflict across the Middle East, including coordination on regional security. Air Defense Upgrade: Iraq set a three-year plan to modernize air defenses as drone and missile strikes continue.

U.S.-Iraq Security Reset: Iraq says the international coalition will withdraw defense systems and remaining troops by Sept. 30, with October 1 framed as full sovereignty—while Baghdad and the Shiite Coordination Framework still wrestle over what happens to weapons held by armed factions. Armed Factions vs. Deadlines: A source close to the Coordination Framework says factions will not hand over weapons by Sept. 30, pushing talks toward regulating or freezing arsenals instead, with a meeting expected soon involving government, security officials, PMF, and faction representatives. Kirkuk Tension: An unidentified force abducted a Kirkuk Oil Products Distribution Company official from a fuel station, with no explanation offered. Anti-Corruption Drive: Iraq’s Federal Integrity Commission issued 191 arrest warrants in August, including 27 for high-ranking officials, as the crackdown continues. Dhi Qar Bribery Case: The accounts director of the Dhi Qar provincial administration was arrested over an alleged 10-million-dinar bribe. Oil Market Watch: OPEC+ kept October output unchanged amid Iran-war uncertainty, as Iraq’s oil export capacity moves higher. Heritage Restoration: Iraq has started restoring the 3,400-year-old Aqarquf Ziggurat temples west of Baghdad with an Italian archaeological delegation.

PMF Legislation Push: Iraq’s government plans to refer draft laws on the Popular Mobilization Forces to parliament within weeks, including PMF restructuring and service/retirement bills after provisions tied to U.S. objections were removed. U.S.-Iraq Security Reset: The United States will complete its troop withdrawal from Iraq’s Kurdistan Region by September 30, ending a presence tied to the anti-ISIS mission. Iran War Pressure on Iraq’s Economy: As U.S.-Iran strikes continue, Iraq’s oil minister says exports have rebounded to over 3 million bpd since early September, with plans to reach 5 million bpd via strategic pipelines and terminals. Oil Sector Politics at Home: Petroleum institute graduates protested outside Iraq’s Oil Ministry and in Basra demanding jobs; separately, depositors protested Al-Taif Islamic Bank after the CBI placed it under guardianship and suspended withdrawals. Local Governance & Social Rules: Diyala’s provincial council urged stricter enforcement of a ban on liquor shops in residential neighborhoods, after complaints about licensing practices. Judicial Crackdown on Sectarian Speech: Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council ordered courts and prosecutors to pursue legal action against sectarian incitement in media and on social platforms.

Oil & Trade Diversification: Iraq says crude exports have topped 3M bpd and aims for 5M by completing new pipeline routes linking Basra-Haditha-Fishkhabur and Haditha-Banias to reduce reliance on the Strait of Hormuz. Kurdistan Infrastructure: The KRG reports the Erbil–Soran corridor road (Korre-Shaqlawa-Qandil) is 70% complete, with an October opening and major travel-time cuts. Kirkuk Security: A leadership change is expected at the Kirkuk Operations Command, with Lt. Gen. Ali Fadel Al-Mafraji nominated to replace Maj. Gen. Maad Badai Al-Daraji. ISIS Detention File: Iraq says it has finished investigating about 5,700 ISIS detainees transferred from Syria, with cases set to proceed to trial and some releases planned. Fuel Crisis & Daily Life: Baghdad and other provinces report renewed gasoline queues as regional conflict disrupts imports, despite Iraq’s large oil production. Anti-Corruption: Five staff tied to the Al-Hussein Teaching Hospital renovation in Al-Muthanna were arrested over alleged contract and oversight violations. Housing Push: Basra and Karbala say they’ve completed procedures for 195,000 free residential plots under the Watan Initiative, with registration slated for October. Currency & Online Governance: The CBI denies any US-dollar rate change after social media claims; meanwhile, Iraq warns of tougher penalties for AI accounts posting obscene or culturally “indecent” content.