AGP Executive Report

Sports & Culture: Iraq will host its national club poomsae taekwondo championship in Baghdad on Sept. 5, with coaching and refereeing courses starting Sept. 4 at Wisam Al-Majd Sports Club. Sports: Kirkuk kicked off the 2026 Grand Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship, drawing 700+ athletes, running through Aug. 29 at the Cultural Center. Arts & Music: Iraqi superstar Kadim Al Sahir released his new album “Bila Inwan” on YouTube and major streaming platforms, featuring 18 tracks blending Iraqi dialect poetry and traditional musical elements. Media & Regulation: Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission (CMC) faces criticism over how its independence clashes with political power-sharing, with concerns about declining media discourse quality. Tech & Industry: Iraq’s first tech pavilion at Saudi Arabia’s LEAP 2026 (Aug. 31–Sept. 3) will showcase Iraqi AI, fintech, digital transformation, logistics, media, and tech services to seek Gulf partnerships. Community & Faith: A Najaf cleric urged Iraqis to reject sectarian hate speech and promote unity across sects and ethnic groups.

Iraq’s Oil Exports: Iraq is offering buyers a new way to collect crude outside the Persian Gulf, with ship-to-ship loading near Oman via SOMO tenders—an effort to keep trade moving despite months of regional disruption. Baghdad Security: Iraq’s parliament has formed a high-level committee to investigate a deadly shooting in Al-Dora that killed interior ministry officers during an anti-encroachment housing operation, with related measures paused pending the probe. Regional Diplomacy: Saudi and Iraqi officials met in Baghdad to tighten border controls and expand intelligence sharing, aiming to boost security coordination. Syria & Kurdish Rights: Syria’s education ministry says Kurdish language classes will be delivered three times per week in Kurdish-majority areas under a new implementation plan. Arts & Film (Global): A Chinese anti-war film, Once Upon a Time in the Middle East, is drawing attention for telling conflict through a civilian cook’s everyday life rather than battlefield heroics.

Parliament Oversight: Iraq’s parliament voted to form a high-level committee to investigate the Al-Dora killings of Interior Ministry officers, and ordered all related measures suspended until the probe is done. Security & Housing Crackdown: The shooting happened during enforcement to remove unauthorized housing in Karara, killing a brigadier and another security member and wounding four others, as Baghdad sealed the area and arrested one suspect. Regional Diplomacy: Iraq and Saudi Arabia met in Baghdad to tighten border controls and expand intelligence sharing, building on earlier talks in Riyadh. Iran Pressure on Iraq: With U.S. sanctions widening under “Operation Economic Outcast,” Iraq faces pressure across energy, trade, and finance tied to Iran. Oil & Shipping Shift: For the first time since the Iran war began, Iraq is offering oil deliveries outside the Persian Gulf via ship-to-ship transfer near Oman. Arts & Culture: London-based artist Piers Secunda opened an exhibition using soot from bombed sites, including work tied to the destroyed Mosul Museum, spotlighting cultural loss.

Iraq–Coalition Withdrawal: Iraq says the international coalition’s pullout is on track to finish by September 30, with German forces already wrapping up in Erbil and facilities set to be handed back to Iraqi authorities. Korek Telecom Court Battle: Iraq’s courts have overturned a Korek Telecom injunction and upheld the regulator’s suspension, as the CMC continues shutting down Korek sites in Baghdad. Satellite Internet Competition: Iraq’s CMC says a second global satellite operator is in talks for an Iraq licence, aiming to bring competition to Starlink. Erbil Drone Attack: Two drones hit sites in Soran district, sparking a fire; authorities have yet to confirm targets or casualties. Regional Security Tensions: Iran warns it won’t tolerate hostile activity from Iraq’s Kurdistan and urges factions to avoid confrontation after Baghdad’s Sept. 30 weapons deadline. Arts & Culture: A “Pop Up in the Park” art show in Bicentennial Park drew 40 vendors and six food trucks, while a separate “Art pops up” event highlights Iraq’s growing local creative scene. Entertainment: Dolly Parton’s death at 80 triggers tributes and flag-lowering in the U.S., and Tim Curry’s passing revives talk of his Rocky Horror legacy.

Iraq Media & Tech: Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission (CMC) rolled out a new Speed Test app that lets users measure internet and mobile quality and feeds results into a national regulatory database, aiming to spot weak coverage, congestion, and service problems. Basra Press Freedom: Iraqi blogger Mustafa Abdul-Razzaq al-Mayahi has started an open-ended hunger strike after a Basra court extended his detention in a case tied to videos about fees at the Shalamcheh border crossing. Currency Watch: Iraq’s Central Bank denied reports of printing new dinar banknotes with zeros removed, saying any change would require legal and technical steps and be announced through official channels. Diplomacy & Regional Tensions: Iraq summoned Iran’s ambassador over social media map posts using contentious naming, as Iraq and Iran continue trading public disputes over geography and nomenclature. Sports & Culture: Iraq’s presence in regional sports chatter also surfaced via coverage of football coaching appointments and local sports investment themes.

Iraq-Iran Cultural Diplomacy: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met Iraq’s top judicial delegation in Tehran, urging Muslim unity and cooperation to boost regional security and pave the way for a US exit. Media & Tech in Iraq: Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission (CMC) and Zain Iraq launched a six-month AI training partnership to build staff skills in AI governance and practical media tools. Arts & Community: Bazaar47 rebrands a downtown Gainesville venue previously known as How Bazaar, keeping it focused on concerts, markets, and community gatherings. Film & Streaming: A new anti-war movie, “Once Upon a Time in the Middle East,” is highlighted alongside Prime Video’s August clearance picks, including “Scarface.” Music & Service: Dolly Parton’s military connection is revisited after her death, including her performances and patriotic work for troops and families. Travel & Culture Links: Baghdad-Vienna direct air route talks were proposed, with potential cooperation also discussed in water, renewable energy, and cultural twinning.

Syria & Iraq Diplomacy: The U.S. formally removed Syria from its state sponsor of terrorism list, a move framed as “isolation to partnership,” while Syrian Kurdish forces’ integration into Damascus continues as SDF commander Mazloum Abdi meets President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus. Regional Alliances Under Strain: Analysis warns the Mecca Agreement could be fragile, citing weak enforcement and mismatched national interests. Iran’s Crackdown at Home: Iran’s feared protest-crusher Hossein Taeb is set to return to top power, tasked with strengthening “popular information” networks to suppress unrest. Sanctions & Culture of Pressure: Washington’s “Operation Economic Outcast” targets Iran’s lifelines—shipping, gold, aviation, tech and more—while Iran vows it can weather the squeeze. Iraq in the Middle: Iraq’s top judge says Baghdad will never forget Iran’s support against terror as U.S. prepares to return diplomats to the region. Iraq Media & Online Space: An Iraqi social-media figure was arrested in Türkiye over alleged military defamation, and Iraq security forces bust fraud and illegal internet networks. Sports & Entertainment: Aramco Stadium in Al Khobar lines up early AFC Asian Cup matches including Iraq vs Singapore; Kurdish MMA fighter Namo Fazil addresses a Chechen controversy, insisting he has no issue with Chechens—just one individual.

Iraqi Football: Iraq national team coach Graham Arnold renewed his contract through the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, saying the Iraqi Football Association offered a longer deal but he chose the Asian Cup timeline to build for the future and push the team toward World Cup qualification. Media & Press Freedom: The U.S. military newspaper Stars and Stripes faces fresh controversy after Pentagon firings of its publisher, editor, and a reporter, raising alarms about editorial independence. Iraq Journalism: Iraqi reporters say access to official information is getting harder as ministries lack spokespersons and some officials refuse comment, while a draft Right of Access to Information Law still awaits parliamentary action. Basra & Borders: A Basra media figure was detained over social-media posts about procedures at the Shalamcheh crossing with Iran, including calls to allow private vehicles and cancel a 3,000-dinar entry fee. Sports Culture: A wave of debate follows “joyrider” content and dangerous driving glorification online after fatal incidents, with calls for stronger platform responsibility. Regional Arts/Film: A Chinese anti-war film set in a restaurant kitchen is drawing major attention, with strong box-office forecasts and high audience ratings.

Sanctions & finance: The U.S. is set to unveil “economic D-day” sanctions aimed at Iran’s financial network, warning countries and companies that keep ties with Tehran could face dollar-system penalties. Regional security: Iraq pushed back on a September 30 deadline for pro-Iran factions to disarm, while Baghdad floated a joint security council idea with Iran and Saudi Arabia amid a “crisis of trust.” Shipping & Hormuz: Iran says it may halt oil exports if pressure continues, as Iraqi tankers are reported to be allowed through the Strait of Hormuz. Iraq politics: State of Law named Lt. Gen. Mohammed al-Sultani as its interior minister candidate, keeping Iraq’s cabinet reshuffle and militia-control debate in focus. Arts & culture: Baghdad’s International Book Fair is set to kick off in September with Qatar among participants, and a Chinese anti-war film about a Middle East restaurant opened in cinemas. Kurdistan safety: Duhok mine clearance teams recovered 43 artillery shells from a village area.

Militia Disarmament Deadline: Iraq signals it may delay consolidating militia weapons until after the Sept. 30 U.S. troop withdrawal, a move analysts call “slow play” that could reshape Baghdad’s deal with Washington. Regional Security Talks: Iraq proposes a joint security council between Iran and Saudi Arabia, citing a “crisis of trust,” while also framing weapons control as a “purely Iraqi” decision. Telecom Court Battle: Baghdad’s Rusafa Court temporarily suspends punitive actions against Korek Telecom, after the CMC shut offices and centers in Baghdad; the dispute now hinges on legal filings and a final ruling. Hormuz Oil Transit: Iran allows some Iraqi oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz amid rising U.S.-Iran sanctions threats, with Iraq also pursuing alternative export routes. Culture & Books: The 27th Baghdad International Book Fair is set for Sept. 2–12 with Qatar among participants and Oman as guest of honor. Sports: SC Delhi signs former Remo Stars captain Junior Nduka from Iraq’s Al-Najaf FC ahead of the 2026/27 Indian Super League season.

Iraqi Telecom Court Fight: A Baghdad court ordered a halt to punitive measures against Korek Telecom, temporarily suspending CMC decisions and keeping services running while the dispute heads toward a final ruling. Judicial Pressure on Regulators: Korek’s case has escalated after the CMC shut down Baghdad offices and sales centers, with lawmakers warning that SIM and interconnection disruptions could hit hundreds of thousands of subscribers and deter investment. PMF Arms Debate: Ammar al-Hakim renewed calls to transfer weapons held by armed factions to the PMF, arguing it supports state control after years of fighting ISIS. Book Culture Spotlight: The 27th Baghdad International Book Fair is set for Sept. 2–12, with 20 countries including Qatar, and Oman as guest of honor. Prison Repatriation Plan: Iraq’s Ministry of Justice says it’s working to repatriate about 6,000 foreign prisoners via diplomatic channels, excluding those sentenced to death. Energy & Regional Tensions: Iraq is seeking special permission for more oil tanker passage through the Strait of Hormuz as Iran allows only some shipments amid US-Iran pressure.

Iraq-Iran Energy & Diplomacy: Iran has granted permission for some Iraqi oil tankers to transit the Strait of Hormuz after repeated requests from Baghdad, with Iraqi President Nizar Amidi stressing the strait’s global impact and warning that Iraq will not allow its territory to be used for attacks. Regional Security Tensions: US envoy Tom Barrack said intelligence behind an Israeli strike on Syria’s Abu al-Duhur airbase was wrong, contradicting Israeli claims about alleged Turkish deployments. Iraq Domestic Media Controls: Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission reported at least 18 2026 restrictions on journalists and public figures, including suspensions and bans tied to alleged incitement and violations of broadcasting rules. Telecom & Connectivity: Iraq’s communications minister says Baghdad and Erbil will discuss launching 5G services jointly next week, alongside 4G licence activation and broader connectivity plans. Arts & Culture (Global, but notable): A profile on SAS author/TV presenter Chris Ryan highlights his escape from Iraq during the 1991 Gulf War, while a separate piece looks at the “messiest” daytime TV divorces.

Iraq’s Sovereignty Line: President Nizar Amidi told the Baghdad Dialogue that “Iraq comes first,” rejecting any use of Iraqi territory to attack other countries and calling for weapons to stay under state control. Hormuz Relief for Oil Exports: Iran has granted permission for some Iraqi oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz after Baghdad’s repeated requests, with officials linking the move to easing pressure on Iraq’s economy. Telecom Crackdown in Baghdad: Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission began closing Korek Telecom offices in Baghdad after a regulator dispute, shutting sites and moving toward restrictions on the company’s assets. Regional Tensions, Syria Airbase: US envoy Tom Barrack said intelligence behind Israel’s strike on Syria’s Abu al-Duhur airbase was wrong, while Israel-Turkey fears grow after the attack near the Turkish border. TV & Pop Culture: If you’re hunting for political drama, Netflix’s “The Diplomat” is back on the watchlist radar, alongside other must-see political series. Sports: China opened the Asian Women’s Volleyball Championship by sweeping Iraq in straight sets.

Iraq Sports & Football: FIFA permanently lifted Najaf FC’s registration ban after the club settled required payments, ending a case that had forced the team to suspend sporting activity in late 2025. Iraq Media & Military: Iraq’s Military Intelligence Directorate reaffirmed rules restricting personnel from appearing in the media, directing complaints through the chain of command. Iraq Housing & Economy: Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi outlined plans to distribute one million residential land plots, expand solar power, and push oil export growth toward 8–10 million barrels per day within six years. Regional Arts & Culture (Global): A new Amazon docuseries spotlights Pep Guardiola’s media-heavy era at Manchester City, while international music news highlights Kurdish New Zealander rapper Fat Papi’s Billboard Hot 100 breakthrough. Entertainment & Satire: Scott McKay’s satirical thriller “The Necessary Men” continues with Episode 4, serialized chapters for readers. Sports Tech: The Iraq Football Association signed a Hudl Wyscout deal to modernize scouting and analysis.

Iraq-Iran Gulf Tensions: Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf sparked an online uproar after posting a map labeling the gulf “Persian Gulf” during talks in Baghdad, reigniting a long-running naming dispute. Sanctions Showdown: Iran warned any new U.S. financial pressure would be “devastating,” as Washington’s Scott Bessent promised the “toughest” penalties aimed at toppling Tehran—while Iran’s Qalibaf accused the U.S. and Israel of “economic and cognitive” warfare. Maritime Security: Two separate hijackings off Somalia and Yemen reportedly involved 22 Indian sailors, with crews held after attacks on a Cameroon-flagged cargo ship and an Eritrean-flagged oil tanker. Local Media/Tech: Iraq’s communications regulator shut down Korek Telecom offices in Baghdad, moving to force users toward verification and alternative numbers. Sports & Culture: Qatar won 20 medals at the West Asian Table Tennis Championships in Amman, with Iraq among the competing teams. Defense Industry Spotlight: Kurdistan’s AAC SHIELD unveiled its B70 tracked armored vehicle, a rare homegrown Iraqi tank project.

Telecom Crackdown in Baghdad: Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission (CMC) shut down Korek Telecom’s Baghdad headquarters and three sales centers, coordinating with the Iraqi National Security Service as part of regulatory enforcement; Korek says the move is illegal and politically driven. Digital Life Meets Reality: A Shafaq News report says Iraqans are already using chatbots for homework and errands, but AI readiness is held back by weak infrastructure, fragmented government databases, and thin digital coordination. AI Divide: Another Shafaq News piece frames Iraq’s AI push as a test of whether institutions can modernize fast enough—before outages and missing digital foundations widen the gap. Parliament vs. PMF Strikes: Iraq’s parliament hearing on the government’s response to US-Saudi strikes that hit PMF sites was disrupted when summoned officials failed to appear, prompting lawmakers to consider further steps. Regional Power Play: Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf visited Baghdad, calling for a “new order” and backing Iraq’s Iran-aligned “resistance,” while also weighing the weapons-disarmament deadline looming at the end of September. Symbolic Gulf Row: Iraqi and Iranian parliament speakers traded posts over whether the Gulf should be called “Persian Gulf” or “Arabian Gulf,” reigniting a sensitive naming dispute tied to shipping and Hormuz tensions. Sports Spotlight: Qatar won 20 medals at the West Asian Table Tennis Championships in Amman, including four golds, with Iraq among the participating teams. Mine Clearance in Duhok: Two teams cleared about 120,000 square meters in Duhok, defusing nine BLU-63 bomblets and an RPG round, as contamination continues to threaten farming and herding.