AGP Executive Report

Iraq World Cup Update: Striker Aymen Hussein was held and questioned for about seven hours after arriving at Chicago’s O’Hare ahead of the 2026 tournament, before being released and rejoining the squad; reports also say the team’s photographer was denied entry after long screening and phone checks, adding last-minute disruption as Iraq prepares for a friendly vs Venezuela and then opens the World Cup in Group I against France, Senegal, and Norway. Squad Change: Iraq also called up Ahmed Hassan Makenzie to replace Ahmed Yahya, ruled out with a hamstring injury, keeping Iraq’s return to the finals on track after a 40-year absence. Oil & Money Pressure: Iraq printed 25 trillion dinars to cope with falling oil revenues, with Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein warning that continued Strait of Hormuz disruptions could trigger a financial disaster and strain salary payments. Energy Watch: OPEC+ ministers meet online Sunday to consider higher output quotas as oil prices stay elevated amid Gulf shipping risks.

World Cup 2026 Focus: Iraq’s World Cup campaign is hitting the spotlight after a turbulent US arrival for striker Aymen Hussein, who was detained and interrogated for seven hours on arrival in Chicago before release. Safety & Enforcement: Iraq’s civil defense says it has shut around 11,000 buildings over the past year for safety violations, with Anbar leading the closures. Iraq Economy & Currency: The PM’s financial advisor says the new government is using official banking and state-backed grocery networks to protect dinar purchasing power and curb inflation, while warning geopolitical energy shocks could still pressure the currency. Regional Maritime Tensions: Iraq’s national security advisor denies any Strait of Hormuz transit fees for Iraqi cargo, saying Tehran has exempted Iraq, as the region remains volatile. International Claims: Iraqi academic Nasser Al-Kinani urges Iraq to rejoin the ICC to pursue compensation claims over the 2003 invasion, estimating damage at about $5 trillion. World Cup Predictions: AI simulations and pundit previews keep circulating, with Group I attention on France, Senegal, Iraq and Norway.

Iraq Arms Under State Control: Iraq’s new push to centralize weapons under state authority is gaining momentum, with the government stressing national sovereignty and warning against political control of arms; officials also point to moves by Shiite factions to sever ties with the PMF as Baghdad tries to consolidate security. Fuel Shortage Pressure: Baghdad is seeing long queues at fuel stations as gasoline supply problems and market disruptions revive black-market activity, while officials dispute claims of a shortage. Regional Diplomacy: In Kurdistan, President Nechirvan Barzani met Turkey’s ambassador to discuss Erbil-Baghdad dialogue and regional stability, with both sides emphasizing restraint and cooperation. World Cup Focus: Iraq’s men’s national team is in training ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with warm-up results including Iraq holding Spain in a friendly as preparations intensify. US-Iran Economic Pressure: The US Treasury sanctioned an Iranian LPG smuggling network using front companies and shadow shipping, underscoring wider pressure tied to the Iran conflict. Oil Market Shock: OPEC output fell to a multi-decade low amid the Iran blockade and Strait of Hormuz disruptions, with Iraq among the affected producers.

Iraq Oil & Exports: Iraq’s crude exports averaged about 329,000 bpd in May, unchanged from April but far below pre-crisis levels, as Gulf shipments remain squeezed by restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz; the Kurdistan-Ceyhan pipeline helped offset part of the drop, but not enough to restore normal volumes. Fuel Shortage Oversight: Iraq’s Integrity Commission launched field teams in Baghdad to monitor fuel distribution, check deliveries against sales, and curb smuggling as gasoline shortages continue. Armed Factions & State Control: A Baghdad preacher backed the move to restrict weapons to the state, while officials said practical steps are underway to integrate armed groups into official structures. Regional Shadow Warfare Claims: A CNN report alleges Israel ran covert intelligence and special forces operations from Azerbaijan and also had covert sites in Iraq, the UAE and Somaliland during the Iran war; Azerbaijan and Iraq deny the claims. Water Relief in Babil: After years of drought, heavier winter rains and better releases from Turkey have boosted Euphrates levels in Babil, reviving fishing and agriculture hopes. Nuclear Safety Warning: The IAEA called a drone attack on the UAE’s Barakah nuclear plant a serious compromise of nuclear safety, saying such attacks are unacceptable. World Cup Build-Up: Spain drew Iraq 1-1 in a warm-up as both teams fine-tune for the 2026 tournament, with Iraq using the match to send a message ahead of its return.

Iraq World Cup Boost: Iraq held Spain to a 1-1 draw in a World Cup warm-up in La Coruňa, with Ferran Torres scoring early and Merchas Doski equalizing after a stunning long-range strike that caught Spain’s keeper off his line—an encouraging sign for Iraq’s return to the tournament after 40 years. Regional Security & Diplomacy: US embassies in Baghdad and other regional capitals urged Americans to stay vigilant and avoid demonstrations as tensions rise around the US-Iran standoff. Militia Disarmament Pressure: Iraq’s push to bring armed groups’ weapons under state control continues, with reports highlighting how hardliners and factions are shaping the pace and terms of any integration. Oil & Economy Watch: Iran’s crude exports reportedly fell to a six-year low in May amid blockade and Strait of Hormuz disruptions, a reminder of how quickly regional shocks can hit Iraq’s energy environment. Sports Calendar: The 2026 World Cup format and host-city schedule keep rolling out, with Iraq listed among the teams to watch as warm-ups wrap.

Armed Groups Under State Control: Iraq’s new push to centralize weapons under state authority is gaining momentum, with reports that the government is forming committees and receiving signals from Iran-backed factions about aligning with Baghdad’s disarmament process. Kurdistan-Baghdad Talks: Kurdistan Region PM Masrour Barzani says Baghdad wants to “turn a new page” with Erbil after high-level meetings on oil exports and financial entitlements. Oil & Money Watch: Baghdad’s markets show stabilization in the USD/IQD, while gold prices hold steady in Baghdad and rise in Erbil; separate reports also point to Kurdistan revenue pressure from regional conflict. Regional Security: Iran’s Quds Force chief Qaani is demanding Israel withdraw from Lebanon amid a US-brokered ceasefire, while analysts warn a US-Iran deal may not end wider instability. World Cup Build-Up (Iraq): Spain hosts Iraq in a friendly ahead of the 2026 tournament, with Iraq preparing for its return to the World Cup after 1986.

Iraq Arms Integration: U.S. envoy Tom Barrack welcomed Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi’s push to integrate armed groups into state institutions and move weapons under government control, calling it a step toward restored sovereignty and stability. Security & Military Losses: The U.S. Department of Defense said Sgt. Devin A. Seibel, 26, died in a training-related incident at Erbil Airbase while supporting Operation Inherent Resolve; the incident is under investigation. A British soldier, L/Cpl James Freeman, also died in a routine training activity in northern Iraq. Regional Tensions: Iran-linked attacks continued to ripple across the Gulf, with Kuwait condemning a strike on Kuwait International Airport that killed one and injured others, the ninth such attack since flights resumed. World Cup Build-Up (Iraq in focus): Spain and Iraq meet in a World Cup warm-up in La Coruña on June 4, while Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said Lamine Yamal is progressing and could be ready for Spain’s June 15 opener, though he won’t play against Iraq. Culture & Education: Iraq’s Kurdistan hosted the Chinese Bridge final in Erbil, with Bahroz Kanabi Ismael winning and earning a spot in the global finals in China.

Oil & Kurdistan: Iraq’s PM Ali al-Zaidi ordered oil companies in the Kurdistan Region to resume operations from Thursday, after drone attacks disrupted energy infrastructure and exports. Armed groups & state control: Iran-backed militias in Iraq signaled steps to disengage from the PMF and move weapons under state authority, with Zaidi saying a committee will be formed within two days. Alternative export routes: Baghdad approved plans to more than triple crude exports via the Kurdistan-Turkey pipeline to Ceyhan, as Strait of Hormuz disruptions keep squeezing southern shipments. Security & militancy: PMF said three IS militants were killed in Nineveh during an operation targeting al-Baaj desert areas. Kurdistan politics: KDP officials renewed calls to resolve deadlock with Baghdad through dialogue and stressed the need to activate the Kurdistan Parliament. Health in Kurdistan: Duhok confirmed a Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever case after a Sinjar resident was hospitalized. Regional spillover: Reports say IRGC missile strikes hit Iranian Kurdish party bases in Erbil’s Alana Valley. World Cup tie-in: Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams should be fit for Spain’s opener, with Iraq set as a warmup opponent.

Gulf Security Shock: Iran-linked missile and drone attacks hit the region after a US strike on Qeshm Island, with Kuwait and Bahrain reporting interceptions and airspace disruptions; the US says none of its personnel were harmed and that it carried out retaliatory strikes. Iraq Arms Under State Control: Two major Iran-backed Iraqi factions announced they are starting to disengage from PMF structures and move weapons under Iraqi state authority, citing demands tied to Grand Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani and Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi. Anti-Corruption Crackdown: Iraq’s judiciary confirmed the detention of Deputy Oil Minister Adnan Al Jumaili over corruption charges, including confiscations of properties, cash, gold, and weapons tied to refinery contracts. Regional Nuclear Concern: The UN nuclear chief warned that an attack on the UAE’s Barakah plant—blamed on drones launched from Iraq—was “unacceptable,” after a reactor shut down temporarily due to power loss. Baghdad Watch: With the Strait of Hormuz under strain and Gulf tensions rising, Iraq’s security and oil-linked economy remain tightly linked to events beyond its borders.

Militias to State Control: Iran-backed Asaib Ahl al-Haq says it has started placing its weapons under Iraqi state authority, forming a committee to inventory fighters and arms and coordinate with Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi—part of a wider push to bring militia firepower under government command. Maritime Security: Two explosions hit a cargo vessel near Umm Qasr; Iraqi officials and UKMTO link the blasts to a drone attack and a projectile strike, with the crew reported safe and no claim of responsibility. Iraq Corruption Watch: Iraq’s Federal Integrity Commission says it uncovered an embezzlement scheme in Diyala’s electricity directorate worth nearly 2 billion dinars, dismissing four senior officials. Regional Ceasefire Reality: Analysts warn that “ceasefire” language across the Middle East is increasingly being treated as low-intensity war—meaning violence can continue without escalation. World Cup Focus (Iraq-linked): France’s William Saliba faces growing injury concern ahead of the tournament, with Iraq listed among France’s group-stage opponents. Euphrates & Flood Risk: Iraq is preparing emergency measures as Euphrates water levels rise, raising concerns for flooding.

Iraq Security: A U.S. soldier and a British soldier died during a training exercise at an air base in Irbil, with identities withheld until families are notified, as Washington keeps a presence in Iraqi Kurdistan. Regional Shipping & Iran Tensions: UKMTO reported a cargo ship explosion off Iraq near Umm Qasr after an unknown projectile; Iran’s IRGC later claimed it struck the Panama-flagged MSC Sariska with a cruise missile, framing it as retaliation. Diplomacy Under Strain: Iran says it suspended indirect talks with the U.S. over Israel’s Lebanon campaign, while Trump insists Iran talks are still moving “at a rapid pace,” keeping ceasefire hopes fragile. World Cup Focus: Iraq unveiled its final 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set for Group I against France, Senegal, and Norway. Sports Injury Watch: France’s William Saliba is reported doubtful for the tournament after a back injury, raising questions for Les Bleus’ defense. Local Economy/Infrastructure: Iraq’s Basra remains a key flashpoint as militias compete for influence near the Kuwait border amid the wider Iran conflict.

Militias to state forces: Muqtada al-Sadr announced the integration of Saraya al-Salam into Iraq’s state authority, with a handover process aimed to finish by Eid al-Ghadir (June 4), as Iraq weighs how far armed groups will go under government control. Iraq security & arrests: Kirkuk counter-terrorism forces arrested a suspect wanted internationally for murder and kidnapping in Sweden, handing him over for legal procedures. Maritime tensions near Umm Qasr: A Panama-flagged MSC container ship (MSC Sariska V) was hit by an unidentified projectile about 40 nautical miles southeast of Umm Qasr; accounts differ between attack claims and mechanical failure, and Iraqi authorities are investigating. Regional war pressure: Iran says it has halted US talks via mediators and threatens wider pressure, including blocking Hormuz and activating other fronts, as Israel’s Lebanon campaign continues. Foreign military incident: The UK confirmed a British Army service member died in a training accident in northern Iraq; details remain under investigation. World Cup spotlight: Iraq is listed in World Cup Group I with France, Senegal, and Norway, as final squad lists are due to be submitted today.

ISIS Case in Australia: An Australian woman accused of joining Islamic State in Syria told a court she has renounced jihad, as prosecutors allege she supported attacks, tried to indoctrinate her children, and recruited others during her time in Raqqa. US-Iran Tensions Spill to Kuwait: The US said it targeted Iranian radar and drone control sites after an MQ-1 Predator was shot down; Kuwait reported intercepts against incoming missile and drone attacks. Bahrain Targets IRGC-Linked Network: Bahrain’s prosecution says it launched investigations into a group tied to the IRGC and Wilayat al-Faqih ideology, alleging mosque and funeral influence, intimidation of clerics, and funding links reaching Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon. US Expands Envoy Role to Iraq: President Trump appointed Tom Barrack as special envoy for Syria and Iraq, keeping him as US ambassador to Türkiye, with Rubio calling him a key figure for Iraq policy. Iraq Security/Politics: Iraq’s PM urged armed factions to join state institutions as integration steps continue, while reports also highlight ongoing armed group pressure and disarmament debate. Baghdad/Economy Signals: Oil and shipping updates point to Hormuz-related strain easing at times, with Iraqi crude movements and regional energy risk still in focus.

US-Iraq Diplomacy: President Trump named Ambassador Tom Barrack as special presidential envoy for both Syria and Iraq, keeping him as Turkey ambassador and signaling a renewed push to manage Washington’s ties with Baghdad amid militia influence and stalled disarmament efforts. Anti-Corruption Drive in Baghdad: Iraqi PM Ali Al Zaidi ordered creation of the Supreme Sovereign Council for Integrity, Oversight, and Recovery of Public Funds to monitor ministries and governorates, cut waste, and refer findings to the judiciary. Baghdad Protest: Thousands rallied in Radwaniyah rejecting a decree tied to land around Baghdad International Airport, alleging a corruption scheme involving foreign developers and bribes. Power Supply Update: Baghdad restarted electricity interconnection lines with Iraqi Kurdistan, adding about 120 MW to support summer demand. Oil Export Friction: With Hormuz disruption, Iraq is relying more on overland tanker routes, but bureaucratic red tape is reportedly delaying shipments and dragging down export volumes. Health Watch in Kurdistan: Kurdistan health officials say no Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever cases have been recorded yet, while central and southern Iraq remain at risk after Eid slaughter season.

Iraq’s Arms Debate: Kataib Hezbollah says it will keep up “militant action” and rejects US pressure to disarm, while offering to help other armed groups hand over and store weapons under state supervision—an open challenge to Baghdad’s push to restrict arms to the state. US-Iran Tensions Spill Into Kuwait: An Iranian Fateh-110 missile hit Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, injuring about five Americans and damaging two MQ-9 Reaper drones, as Washington weighs a potential 60-day ceasefire and “final determination” on Iran talks. Baghdad-Eid Connectivity: Iraq’s Communications Ministry plans free internet at major holy shrines in Najaf, Karbala, Kadhimiya and Samarra starting next week for Eid al-Ghadir, with service also planned for Ashura and Arbaeen routes. World Cup Build-Up: Iraq beat Andorra 1-0 in a friendly ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with Ali Yusuf scoring, and the team set to face Spain in the final warm-up. Regional Politics and Sovereignty: Kataib Hezbollah also urged Iraqi lawmakers to limit US and British ambassadors’ interference in Iraq’s domestic affairs. Sports Admin Shock: UAE Football Association terminated coach Cosmin Olaroiu and staff after the UAE’s World Cup qualification failure, including elimination by Iraq in the playoff.

Iraq Budget Pressure: Iraq is struggling to balance its 2026 budget as oil exports fall sharply after Strait of Hormuz restrictions, with officials warning the budget has become a “political and economic equation” tied to volatile regional conditions. Oil Routes & Prices: Baghdad is pushed toward northern export routes via Turkey’s Ceyhan port, while dollar rates and gold prices show mixed movement across Baghdad and Erbil amid the wider Gulf disruption. Security & Factions: Iraq’s Prime Minister urged armed factions to disarm and join state institutions after Al-Sadr’s Saraya al-Salam move under government authority, as Baghdad also faces ongoing bomb and counter-terror incidents. Regional Diplomacy: Iraq and Iran continue talks on de-escalation and US-linked nuclear discussions, while Tehran warns Baghdad not to use its airspace for threats. Baghdad Church Leadership: A new head of the Chaldean Catholic Church assumed office in Baghdad, marking a fresh chapter for one of Iraq’s key Christian communities. World Cup Spotlight (Iraq): Iraq’s World Cup match schedule includes a June 16 clash vs Norway in Boston, keeping Iraqi fans tied to the tournament as preparations ramp up.