AGP Executive Report

Anti-Corruption Crackdown: Iraq launched dawn raids in Baghdad’s fortified Green Zone, sealing entrances and deploying tanks and anti-terror units to detain MPs and senior officials over corruption links tied to former Oil Ministry deputy Adnan al-Jumaili; authorities say 47 people were arrested and large sums and assets were seized. Green Zone Lockdown: Video and local reports described heavy military presence around the US Embassy area as suspects reportedly fled before arrests, prompting road closures and expanded searches. Hormuz Tensions: Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi told Iraq that Tehran has sole control of Strait of Hormuz for 30 days, warning against outside interference and insisting the US-Iran MoU must proceed. Regional Security Push: Araghchi also called for a Gulf security framework led by regional states without outside powers, while Iraq’s FM Fuad Hussein urged reopening Hormuz and lifting any US blockade. Gulf Escalation: Iran launched missile and drone strikes on Bahrain and Kuwait after US actions, with Bahrain and Kuwait reporting interceptions and damage to a residential building in Bahrain. Muharram Media Row: Pakistan’s Geo News apologized after airing a Muharram documentary, after PEMRA suspended the channel over religious-content concerns.

Green Zone Crackdown: Iraqi special forces deployed inside Baghdad’s fortified Green Zone amid reports of arrests tied to corruption files, with tanks and armored vehicles seen and no official names or charges released. US Embassy Security Spike: The Green Zone was also sealed after reports of heavy gunfire near the US Embassy, continuing a pattern of escalating threats against western compounds. Iran-Iraq Talks: Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi is set to visit Baghdad to discuss gas payment settlements, frozen Iranian assets, and regional security, while Iraq’s PM stresses balanced ties and rejects “dictates.” Wasit Power Protests: In Kut, protesters demanded better electricity and detainee releases; authorities dispersed crowds and arrested people, as rights groups warn of a crackdown reminiscent of 2019. Fuel Theft Claims: Fuel station owners allege daily “major theft” in deliveries, blaming shortages and fines on the Oil Products Distribution Company. Iraq World Cup Exit: Iraq were eliminated after a 5-0 loss to Senegal in Toronto, ending their first World Cup appearance since 1986 with no points. World Cup Round of 32: The knockout stage begins Sunday with 32 teams set in the bracket.

Coalition Exit Talks: Iraqi PM Ali al-Zaidi told Sky News the US-led coalition’s combat mission against Daesh ends next September, with foreign forces leaving Iraq, while stressing weapons must stay inside state institutions and pointing to a “Sovereignty Conference.” Regional Tensions: Iraq’s parliament speaker Haibet al-Halbousi condemned recent Iranian attacks as violations of Arab sovereignty, backing the US-Iran understanding to ease tensions. Security & Tech: Iraqi forces recovered an unidentified drone in Baghdad’s Nahrawan district; initial checks found no explosives, as Iraq tightens anti-terror rules on drones. Water Crisis: Iraq’s Water Resources Ministry agreed to restore normal operations at the Al-Yaou regulator in Najaf within 48 hours and release extra water after a dispute sparked fears for southern agriculture and marshlands. Health Infrastructure: Heet’s long-awaited 200-bed hospital in Anbar is 72% complete, with completion targeted for April 2027. Environment: Water hyacinth resurfaced in the Euphrates near Nasiriyah after cleanup efforts, raising new concerns for waterways and fish stocks. Economy & Society: Iraq’s e-commerce boom is growing fast, but fraud and weak protections are eroding trust. World Cup Fallout: Senegal crushed 10-man Iraq 5-0 in Toronto; Iraq exited Group I with zero points, while Senegal kept knockout hopes alive.

World Cup Shock for Iraq: Senegal crushed 10-man Iraq 5-0 in Toronto in Group I’s finale, with Habib Diarra scoring early, Rebin Sulaka sent off after VAR, and a second-half surge sealing the rout. Round-of-32 Stakes: Senegal finished third on three points and now waits to see if they qualify as one of the eight best third-placed teams, while Iraq exited the tournament without a point. Iraqi Fans in the Spotlight: Thousands of Iraqi supporters flooded downtown Toronto for the must-win match, but the early goal and red card quickly flipped the mood. Oil Politics in Baghdad: Iraq’s Oil Ministry said Opec has started restoring Iraq’s pre-war production allocations and denied any PM discussion of leaving Opec, amid ongoing quota pressure. Regional Tensions: US forces carried out strikes on Iran after an attack on a commercial ship in the Strait of Hormuz, as Iraq watches the wider Gulf fallout.

World Cup Pressure on Iraq: Iraq’s national team faces Senegal in a do-or-die Group I finale, needing a win at BMO Field (10:00 p.m. Baghdad time) but still relying on other results to reach the round of 32, as both sides enter with slim hopes after defeats to Norway and France. Oil & OPEC Talks: Iraq’s Oil Ministry says OPEC has started gradually restoring Iraq’s pre-war production allocations, with Baghdad backing a quota reassessment tied to Iraq’s economic and security conditions, while denying any discussion of leaving OPEC. Karbala Ashura Security: Karbala authorities say Ashura security and services were successfully implemented, with field supervision across ministries, PMF support, and large-scale medical and public support for millions of mourners. Kurdistan Production Restart: Global oil firms are resuming output in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region, including DNO restarting Tawke and Pish Khabour and other companies preparing phased returns, lifting expected regional crude output. Humanitarian Move: Prime Minister Mohammed Ali al-Zaidi pledged Iraq’s readiness to provide humanitarian assistance to Venezuela after twin earthquakes. Transport Update: Kirkuk International Airport launched its first direct flight to Trabzon, adding to earlier Dubai service as routes expand. Al-Anbar Ordnance Cleanup: Civil Defense in Al-Anbar reports removing 1,593 unexploded munitions since the start of 2026, warning that buried explosives can remain dangerous for decades.

OPEC Pressure on Iraq’s Oil: Iraq is weighing “all available options” if its OPEC quota isn’t significantly raised, with Reuters citing an Iraqi oil ministry official warning the country could consider leaving after the UAE’s recent exit. Oil Market Moves: Iraq’s SOMO issued a tender to sell July-loading Basra Heavy and Basra Medium, while oil prices edged up after a reported attack near Oman reignited fears over Strait of Hormuz supply. Hormuz Governance Clash: Iran’s IRG Navy said safe passage depends on Iran-approved routes and warned vessels to avoid unauthorized lanes, as Gulf states and mediators push for new talks involving Iran, Iraq, and others. Ashura in Iraq: Shia pilgrims and neighborhood crowds marked Ashura across Iraq, including major gatherings in Karbala and Baghdad’s Al-Kifah district, with mawkibs providing food and medical support. World Cup Focus (Iraq): Iraq’s World Cup hopes hinge on must-win games, with Senegal and Iraq both facing high-stakes qualification scenarios as Group I outcomes tighten.

OPEC Showdown: Iraq’s oil ministry says Baghdad is urging OPEC to raise its production quota, warning that without a significant hike the country may consider “all available options,” including reassessing membership—after Hormuz disruptions hit exports and finances. Hormuz Shipping Watch: Strait of Hormuz commercial traffic has rebounded sharply since a ceasefire framework, with tankers and crude flows rising as markets price improving supply, though full normalization may take weeks. Kurdistan Budget Row: The KRG claims Baghdad transferred only 42% of the Kurdistan budget share over seven years, withholding more than $36.6 billion and leaving salaries and operations short. Press Freedom in Kurdistan: PUK leader Bafel Talabani’s public insults of journalists in Sulaimani have sparked renewed concerns about shrinking space for media work. Ashura Tomorrow: Holy Ashura is set for Friday, with Iraq’s security and public service operations ramping up ahead of peak Karbala observances. World Cup, Iraq Focus: Iraq’s World Cup campaign continues amid high-stakes matches and heavy weather disruptions affecting play and schedules.

Iraq Visa Rules for Pilgrims: Iraq has tightened entry for Pakistani pilgrims, with new regulations limiting visas to 30 days, banning single male pilgrims under 50, and saying individuals traveling alone on a family visa won’t be allowed in. Authorities also warned that overstays can bring fines, deportation, and a lifetime ban, and that visa fees won’t be refunded if entry is denied. World Cup Focus (Iraq in Group Play): Iraq’s World Cup campaign continues to draw attention after the France-Iraq match drama and results that shaped qualification scenarios, with fans watching group standings and knockout possibilities closely. Regional Diplomacy and Security: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is on a Gulf tour to reassure allies that any US-Iran settlement won’t undermine Gulf security, as negotiations aim to stabilize the region after the recent Iran war. Oil and Shipping Pressure: Oil prices eased as tankers resumed movement through the Strait of Hormuz following an initial Iran-related accord, while officials said full normalcy could take weeks due to demining.

World Cup & Iraq Sports: Senegal’s goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has been ruled out of the decisive clash against Iraq after a knee injury, leaving both teams heading into their final Group I game in Toronto with everything still to play for. Kurdistan Politics: KDP and PUK are at odds over forming the KRG cabinet nearly two years after elections, with both sides accusing the other of blocking progress. US-Iraq Security: A senior US official says militia disarmament in Iraq will be judged by “actions and measurable results,” stressing Iraq must prevent attacks from its territory by Iran-backed groups. Diplomacy: Iraq has nominated Armenian Christian adviser Krikor Der-Hagopian as ambassador to Washington, seen as part of Baghdad’s effort to reset ties with the US. Economy & Debt: Iraq’s domestic public debt hit 95.7T dinars by end of April, while external debt continued to fall. Counter-ISIS: The US says it killed a senior ISIS leader in a Syria airstrike on June 19.

World Cup & Iraq Sports: France booked its World Cup Round of 32 spot with a 3-0, storm-delayed win over Iraq in Philadelphia, powered by Kylian Mbappé’s brace; Iraq’s hopes now hinge on the Senegal decider, but injuries are piling up. Injuries Ahead of Iraq’s Final Group Match: Iraq faces Senegal on Friday with striker Muhannad Ali “Mimi” ruled out, while Aymen Hussein is also unlikely to recover; Senegal confirmed goalkeeper Édouard Mendy will miss the match after a knee ligament injury. Corruption & Courts: Iraq’s Integrity Commission and INSS arrested customs employees in Kirkuk over corruption; an Iraqi court jailed al-Watan Party chief Yazan Mishaan al-Jubouri for a $26M fraud scheme. Water Safety: Iraq Green Iraq Observatory warned the Euphrates is unsafe for fishing and human use as pollution and low water levels worsen. Economy & Markets: The US dollar slipped in Baghdad and Erbil, trading around 157,000 IQD per $100. Security & Training: The army opened a new trench training facility for drone-era threats. Energy & Hormuz Pressure: TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne urged Gulf pipeline investment to bypass Hormuz, as tanker rates and oil flows remain tightly linked to regional volatility.

World Cup Shock for Iraq: France beat Iraq 3-0 in Philadelphia to reach the Round of 32, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice on his 100th France appearance and Ousmane Dembélé adding the third. The match was delayed nearly two hours after lightning and storms, with fans ordered to shelter and play resuming once conditions were safe. Group I Stakes: Norway also qualified after Erling Haaland’s brace powered a 3-2 win over Senegal, setting up a France-Norway showdown for top spot. Hormuz Tolls Talk: Iran and Oman announced a joint working group on the future administration of the Strait of Hormuz, including “costs” tied to transit, as tolls remain a key dispute with the US. Tehran Funeral Holidays: Iran declared three days of public holidays in Tehran for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s funeral ceremonies, with Iraq scheduling ceremonies on July 8.

World Cup—France-Iraq: Kylian Mbappé marked his 100th France cap with a 3-0 win over Iraq in Philadelphia, scoring twice (including after a two-hour lightning delay) while Ousmane Dembélé added the third. The match was paused at halftime for severe weather, with fans moved to covered areas as storms rolled through. World Cup—Golden Boot race: Mbappé’s brace took him to 16 World Cup goals, leveling him with Miroslav Klose and keeping him two behind Lionel Messi, who earlier set a new record with 18 after Argentina beat Austria. World Cup—Norway advance: Erling Haaland scored twice as Norway beat Senegal 3-2 to reach the knockout round, with the Group I picture tightening after France’s qualification. Baghdad/Iraq—Fans and fallout: Iraqi supporters in the U.S. celebrated their team’s return to the World Cup despite the loss, while the weather disruption became a major talking point for both sides.

World Cup Focus: France vs Iraq is the big Monday night draw in Philadelphia, but severe thunderstorms could delay or pause the match as FIFA applies lightning rules (pause if lightning hits within 8 miles; resume only after 30 minutes without strikes). Group Stage Stakes: France enters as a heavy favorite after beating Senegal 3-1, while Iraq is looking to bounce back from a 4-1 opener loss to Norway; Kylian Mbappé says his focus is on winning, not record talk. Other Key Fixtures: Argentina hosts Austria in Dallas with Lionel Messi aiming to move closer to the World Cup scoring record, while Norway takes on Senegal in New Jersey with Erling Haaland leading the charge. Iraq Economy & Finance: Iraq appointed Nazar Nasser Hussein as the new central bank governor amid financial strain and reform pressure, as the Iraqi dinar slid to its lowest in 2.5 years. Energy & Regional Tensions: The US granted Iran a temporary 60-day oil export license, while shipping through the Strait of Hormuz reportedly fell sharply after renewed IRGC warnings—an issue that directly affects Iraq’s export routes. Kurdistan Diplomacy: Masrour Barzani and Masoud Barzani met Russian ambassadors in Erbil, stressing expanded ties and discussing regional developments.

World Cup Focus: Iraq and France are set for a high-stakes Group I clash in Philadelphia on Monday, with France chasing a last-16 spot after beating Senegal 3-1 and Iraq rebounding from a 4-1 loss to Norway; France-Iraq Preview: Kylian Mbappé is in record-breaking form and will play his 100th France appearance, while Iraq coach Graham Arnold joked about trying “three goalkeepers” to slow him down; Oil & Economy: Iraq’s Ministry of Oil says it’s pushing to restore output to pre-crisis levels of about 4.2–4.3 million barrels per day and lift exports via southern ports; Gulf Shipping Watch: Iran says it has again closed the Strait of Hormuz, sharply reducing ship traffic, while markets react to shifting supply fears; US-Iran Diplomacy: US and Iran agreed on a roadmap toward a final deal within 60 days after Swiss talks, but the process is still bumpy as disputes over implementation and frozen funds linger; Local Impact: Philadelphia is under severe storm alerts Monday, with heavy rain and possible severe weather that could affect the France-Iraq match.

Northern Oil Push: Iraq has started drilling its first exploration well in the north since 1978, launching work in Amerli, Saladin, as part of a drive to lift output and exports. Oil Revenue Plan: The Oil Ministry says it aims to restore crude production toward 4.2–4.3 million bpd and revive southern exports, while the government rejects external borrowing and points to alternative revenue steps. Security Updates: Iraq carried out airstrikes targeting ISIS “guesthouses” in Al-Anbar desert, and the Al-Anbar Provincial Council removed the Martyrs’ Foundation head, Raheeb Hamid Hais. Rights & Accountability: Iraq’s High Commission for Human Rights condemned police abuse videos in Karbala and Kirkuk, urging accountability and better training. Missing Persons Pressure: Families of Saqlawiyah missing persons allege groups linked to security institutions are pressuring them to stay silent. Governance Ahead of US Trip: Iraq says it will finalize the new cabinet in early July before PM Ali al-Zaidi’s scheduled US visit. Kurdistan Ties: Nechirvan Barzani reiterated Kurdistan’s destiny is tied to a strong partnership with Baghdad. World Cup Spotlight: France take on Iraq Monday, while Norway’s Haaland era continues after a big start.

Iraq Energy Relief: The Iraqi cabinet approved free diesel for private generator owners during July and August to ease summer power shortages, with 45 liters per 1 KVA capacity and conditions tied to daily electricity supply. Security Tightening: Iraq’s National Security Service says security forces have taken over border crossings and key checkpoints to improve monitoring, curb smuggling, and protect state revenues. Drone Incident in Anbar: A small drone crash near Parliament Speaker Haibat al-Halbousi’s guesthouse in Karma District caused a minor brush fire; authorities say it carried no explosives and investigations continue. Electricity & Heat Pressure: Iraq also saw multiple cities among the world’s hottest in the past 24 hours, with Samawah ranking sixth globally and several Iraqi sites above 46°C. Kurdistan Domestic Violence Data: In Kurdistan Region, psychological abuse made up over 40% of domestic violence cases, while marriage and divorce registrations rose between 2024 and 2025. Sports—World Cup Focus: France’s William Saliba said he is playing through back pain ahead of France’s Group I match against Iraq, while World Cup coverage continues to shape Iraq’s match-day attention. Oil & Diplomacy Watch: Iraq is moving to reactivate a gas deal with Turkmenistan, linking the effort to recent US-Iran diplomatic developments to help address the electricity crisis.