AGP Executive Report

Iraqi Politics & State Authority: Iraq’s newly elected PM Ali al-Zaidi urged armed factions to operate under state authority, echoing Muqtada al-Sadr’s move to integrate Saraya al-Salam into official institutions. Security & Counterterrorism: Iraq’s Counter-Terrorism Service launched wide searches across Nineveh, Saladin, Najaf, al-Anbar, Wasit, Diyala, Dhi Qar and al-Muthanna to disrupt remaining ISIS cells. Terror Charges Abroad (Iraq-linked): U.S. DOJ indicted Iraqi-Iranian Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood Al-Saadi over nearly 20 plots and attempted attacks in Europe and North America, including a plan targeting a New York synagogue. Regional Tensions: Kuwait reported a suspected missile and drone attack as U.S.-Iran strikes and a fragile ceasefire extension remain in play. Arts & Culture (Iraq audience): A Shafaq News feature captured children in rural Babil turning palm groves into playgrounds—an artsy look at everyday creativity. Sports & Community: Kurdistan Region tourism officials said Eid al-Adha visitors are flooding Duhok and Zakho, with hotels nearing full occupancy.

Iraq Tourism & Eid Al-Adha: Thousands of visitors poured into Erbil and the Kurdistan Region for Eid Al-Adha, filling parks, resorts, and entertainment spots as local authorities boosted services and deployed security and medical teams; Erbil alone saw more than 70,000 tourists in recent days, with events continuing through May 31. Film & Veterans Support: A free screening and seminar for military veterans, active duty personnel, first responders, and families is set for The Highlands, featuring “Brothers After War,” a follow-up that focuses on returning to civilian life after deployment. Arts & Culture Spotlight: A new WWII drama, “Pressure,” brings the real story of D-Day weather forecasting to the screen, tying cinematic tension to historical planning. Regional Conflict Backdrop: Fresh US-Iran clashes and renewed strikes around the Strait of Hormuz continue to dominate headlines, with Iran condemning attacks and warning of further response—an atmosphere that also shapes how regional stories and performances are being framed. Fashion & Identity: NYC’s first Muslim mayor, Zohran Mamdani, went viral for his Arsenal-themed Eid Al-Adha outfit, sparking global debate over style names and cultural meaning.

Eid at Wadi al-Salam: On Eid al-Adha morning, Najaf’s Wadi al-Salam cemetery fills with families from across Iraq for dawn prayers, Fatiha recitations, and charity offerings—mourning and ritual side by side in the world’s largest Islamic cemetery. Iraq Security Reform: Iraqi PM Ali al-Zaidi urged armed groups to operate under the state after Moqtada al-Sadr announced Saraya al-Salam’s integration into Iraq’s armed forces, reinforcing the push to keep weapons with official institutions. Iraq’s Women Deminers: Yazidi deminer Hana Khider and an all-female team continue clearing ISIS landmines and booby traps in northern Iraq, with her work featured in a Nobel Peace Prize-linked documentary series. World Cup in Iraq’s Orbit: A major Iraq-related match-up is set for a community soccer watch party in Seattle—Senegal vs. Iraq—paired with street festival activities and big-screen viewing. Strait of Hormuz Tensions: US-Iran talks remain tangled as Washington rejects a claimed draft deal and Trump reiterates that the Strait of Hormuz must stay open to all, while Iran frames control as deterrence.

Iraq-UK Political Row: Muqtada al-Sadr demanded an official British apology after UK Ambassador Irfan Siddiq said Western powers “introduced Shiite rule” in Iraq post-2003, with Sadr also attacking London as a “fertile environment” for Baathists and calling for extraditions. Faith & Pilgrimage: Millions gathered in Karbala for the Day of Arafah, with Arafah supplication ceremonies held across Iraq and worldwide as security plans for Arafah and Eid al-Adha were implemented. Arts & Culture (Iraq-linked): A Kirkuk “last projectionist” and a café for the city’s older generation are keeping Iraq’s fading cinema culture alive, while a Middle East-rooted fragrance trend highlights ancient Mesopotamian perfume layering traditions. Sports & Media (Iraq in the mix): EA Sports FC 26’s “World’s Game” update includes generic squads for Iraq and Iran, and FIFA World Cup 2026 coverage continues with schedules and base-camp details.

Muslim Unity Push: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian used Eid al-Adha calls to urge deeper Muslim solidarity, speaking with leaders including Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Turkey, Egypt and others “in the face of threats.” Iran–US Deal Sticking Point: Qatar-hosted talks keep circling the $24bn frozen Iranian funds, with Tehran insisting $12bn be released immediately before any memorandum moves forward—while the US tests the ceasefire with strikes near the Strait of Hormuz. Iraq–Iran Connectivity: Iran is upgrading the Parviz Khan border crossing, a major trade gateway to Iraq’s Kurdistan, as shipments and truck traffic remain central to the corridor. Citizenship Crackdown: A report says the Trump administration is ramping denaturalization efforts by shifting immigration lawyers from USCIS to DOJ. Defense Tech Spotlight: Costs to link LUCAS kamikaze drones to SpaceX networks reportedly jumped as the Pentagon leans harder on space services. World Cup Logistics: FIFA finalized base camps for all 48 teams across the US, Canada and Mexico, with the USMNT starting preparations ahead of its opener.

US-Iran Tensions: Despite a fragile ceasefire and ongoing talks, the US carried out renewed “self-defence” strikes in southern Iran, hitting missile sites and boats near the Strait of Hormuz—while Iran’s supreme leader warned regional nations will no longer “serve as shields” for US bases. Diplomacy vs. Reality: Trump says a peace deal is “largely negotiated,” but Iranian officials insist no formal agreement is in place, leaving the Strait’s future and frozen funds as major sticking points. Iraq in the Mix: An Iraqi ex-MP, Haidar al-Mulla, was released after courts dismissed all charges tied to past media statements. Human Stories: A viral video tied to an alleged honour killing in Nahrawan is drawing scrutiny, with authenticity still unverified. Arts & Culture Pulse: Erbil reported 75,000+ tourists since Eid, and veterans’ remembrance continues through community events and new books like Ballast Books’ The Invisible Veteran.

Iran-US Ceasefire Under Pressure: Even as talks continue in Doha over ending the war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, CENTCOM says it struck Iranian forces in southern Iran within the hour—sinking two IRGC boats accused of laying mines and destroying a missile site—showing the “pause” is being enforced, not trusted. Regional Tensions Spill Into Iraq: Reuters reports a rocket attack hit an Iranian opposition camp north of Erbil in Iraq’s Kurdistan, injuring two fighters, underlining how quickly incidents can cross borders. Kirkuk’s Fading Cinema Lives On: In Kirkuk, a collector keeps old projectors running and tapes preserved, while another café bans under-18s to protect a slower, older generation’s social memory. Arts & Community on Memorial Day: Across communities, ceremonies and music honor the fallen—while Iraq’s cultural threads are also being kept alive, from film reels to antiques. Sports Spotlight: FIFA confirmed 2026 World Cup base camps, with Iraq listed at Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia.

US-Iran Talks: Iran says it has wrapped up “a large portion” of issues but no deal is imminent, as Trump calls the emerging agreement “largely negotiated” and Rubio hints at a possible announcement “maybe today,” with the big sticking point still tied to nuclear terms and Strait of Hormuz reopening. Iraq Security & Politics: In Erbil, an Iraqi minister says armed factions are open to handing weapons to the state under conditions, while the CMC moves against Korek Telecom by seizing assets over unpaid obligations. World Cup Buzz: Spain named its 26-man World Cup squad—Lamine Yamal included despite injury worries—but for the first time ever, no Real Madrid players made the cut, with Barcelona heavily represented. Memorial Day Culture: A veteran-founded music release, “Folded Flag,” honors fallen service members and Gold Star families, alongside a major donation. Arts & Media Tech: WATCH IT expands on LG Smart TVs, launching eight free ad-supported channels across Iraq and the region.

Iraq Media Crackdown: Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission has barred political analyst Bashir al-Hujaimi from appearing on local and foreign outlets for 30 days, citing “false and misleading material” and alleged failures on accuracy and transparency—another reminder that Iraq’s media space is tightly policed. US-Iran Deal Jitters: Oil slid to two-week lows as optimism grew that a US-Iran peace framework is near, with talk of reopening the Strait of Hormuz and unfreezing some Iranian funds—while Republicans trade accusations over whether any deal would be a win or a dangerous concession. Kurdish Fears in the North: Kurdish groups in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region say a potential US-Iran deal may not stop Iranian drone and missile attacks on Kurdish opposition bases, including reports of strikes in Erbil. World Cup Momentum: Iraq’s national team has a new official medical partner for the 2026 tournament, Aspetar, as preparations ramp up. Community & Culture: Memorial Day events and veteran-focused initiatives continue to draw attention, from tributes to recovery support programs.

Kurdistan Under Fire: Iran-linked drones hit Kurdish opposition bases in Erbil province again, with Rudaw reporting attacks on the Komala Party in Khalifan and the Kurdistan Freedom Party in Darashakran—no casualties reported, but officials say the campaign since Feb. 28 has reached hundreds of strikes. Iraq’s Safety Crackdown: Iraq’s Civil Defense says it has referred 1,885 establishments to court and closed 11,070 buildings over fire-safety violations, with Baghdad’s Rusafa district and Anbar among the worst-hit. US-Iran Talks, Hormuz Dispute: Trump says a US-Iran deal is “largely negotiated” and would reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran’s Fars says control would still remain with Tehran—leaving Iraq and the region bracing for what comes next. Syrian Kurdish Politics: Syria’s People’s Assembly selections for Kurdish-majority areas drew sharp Kurdish objections, with critics calling them pre-decided appointments. Viral Kurdish Culture: A Kurdish-language AI song (“Her e Gule”) is surging on TikTok and Instagram, turning Kurdish lyrics into a global trend.

US-Iran Talks: Trump says an Iran deal is “largely negotiated” and promises the Strait of Hormuz will reopen, but Tehran immediately pushed back, saying control of the strait remains Iranian and key gaps—especially around nuclear issues—are still unresolved. Mediation Pressure: Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir keeps shuttling between capitals as both sides talk up “encouraging progress,” with officials warning the next few days could decide whether a framework becomes a real agreement. Regional Fallout: US Sen. Lindsey Graham warns any deal that lets Iran grow stronger could “pour gasoline” on conflicts in Lebanon and Iraq and worsen Strait security risks. Iraq Security: In Kirkuk, Iraqi forces killed four ISIS militants in airstrikes and ground operations. Iraq Politics: Iraq’s cabinet completion is delayed until after Eid Al-Adha, with blocs sorting nominees and security posts still under negotiation. Arts & Voice: Palestinian rapper Tamer Nafar brings hip-hop storytelling to Amsterdam, using language and sequencing to carry past and future narratives. Commemoration: Memorial Day events continue across the US, including Colorado’s Freedom Memorial ceremony honoring thousands of fallen Coloradans.

Iran-US Diplomacy Under Pressure: Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir is in Tehran, meeting Iran’s president and top negotiators as the US signals “slight progress” in talks and warns the ceasefire could unravel. Hardline Response: Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf says Iran rebuilt its forces during the ceasefire and any renewed US strikes would bring a “crushing” response. Strait of Hormuz Stakes: Iran warns it is tightening control of Hormuz while shipping and energy markets react to renewed risk. US-Iran War Costs: A US congressional report says 42 US aircraft were lost or damaged in the Iran campaign, with the Pentagon yet to publish a full list. US Intelligence Shake-up: Tulsi Gabbard resigned as Director of National Intelligence, citing her husband’s rare bone cancer; Trump named her deputy Aaron Lukas as acting director. Iraq Domestic Pulse: Iraq recorded 6,628 divorce cases in April, with rights groups blaming economic strain, unemployment, drugs, domestic violence, and social media. Iraq Security Angle: An Iraqi man tied to Iran-linked networks is accused of plotting to assassinate Ivanka Trump, allegedly using a Florida house blueprint.

US-Iran Diplomacy Under Pressure: Pakistan and Qatar have sent delegations to Tehran as Washington signals “slight progress” in talks, but officials warn a deal is far from guaranteed and the nuclear issue remains off-limits for now. Iraq Security Probe: Iraq has launched a committee to investigate attacks on the UAE and Saudi Arabia said to originate from Iraqi territory, with “proactive intelligence” and border enforcement promised. Strait of Hormuz Tolls Debate: Iran is pushing ideas that could add fees or charges for shipping through the Strait, raising fresh alarm in the region’s energy lifeline. Memorial Day, Iraq War Echoes: Across the week, tributes and ceremonies marked 15 years since the Iraq War’s end, while veterans groups renewed calls for long-term support. Cabinet Shake-up in Washington: Tulsi Gabbard resigned as US Director of National Intelligence, citing her husband’s rare bone cancer—adding another twist to an already tense Iran track.

US-Iran Talks: Marco Rubio says there’s “slight progress” in talks with Iran, but warns a deal is still uncertain as war fears linger. Strait of Hormuz Pressure: Iran tightens control with new ship-clearance steps, while the Strait disruption keeps global shipping and regional energy costs under strain. Iraq’s Logistics Shift: Iraq is leaning on Jordan’s Aqaba port as Hormuz bottlenecks hit imports and exports. US Congress: Republicans delay a war-powers vote aimed at forcing Trump to withdraw from the Iran war, signaling growing friction on Capitol Hill. Military Fallout: A US Air Force report claims 42 aircraft were lost or damaged in the Iran war. Arts & Culture/Local Life: Norway’s King Harald announced the World Cup squad featuring Haaland and Odegaard; in Iraq, the CMC pledges faster 5G rollout, while Memorial Day remembrance continues across the UK and US. Viral Culture: A Fox News clip featuring retired Navy SEAL Robert Harward sparks “mask” conspiracy theories online.

US-Iran Talks, With Teeth: Iran’s new proposal to the U.S. demands an end to the near-Iran U.S. presence, reparations for the US-Israeli war, sanctions relief, release of frozen funds, and an end to the Hormuz maritime blockade—while Tehran warns it will “open new fronts” if aggression resumes. Hormuz Tension: Iran’s IRGC says 31 commercial ships transited safely as diplomatic channels keep moving via Pakistan mediation, even as threats of wider conflict hang over the Strait. Iraq Security Claims: Iraq’s Kurdish security chief says Israel can’t establish a foothold inside Iraq and calls reports of a second Israeli base “false,” after earlier claims by the WSJ. War Powers Fight in Washington: U.S. Republicans delayed a vote that would force Trump to withdraw from the Iran war, signaling slipping support in Congress. Arts & Culture Glint: Cannes Directors’ Fortnight winner Clio Bernard’s “I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning” takes the People’s Choice Audience Award. Sports Spotlight: Senegal unveils a 28-man World Cup squad with “big dreams,” and Group I includes Iraq.

UAE Nuclear Alarm: The IAEA says a drone strike near Abu Dhabi’s Barakah plant left “undeniable risks” if hit directly, as Iran and others warn the region is sliding toward catastrophe. Iraq’s Response: Baghdad says it will form a committee to investigate drone attacks blamed on Iraqi territory, after the UAE demanded immediate action. US-Iran War Powers: In Washington, the House is set to vote on forcing Trump to withdraw from the Iran war, with Democrats pushing the War Powers Resolution as frustration grows over the Hormuz standoff. Diplomacy vs Threats: Iran says it’s reviewing a US ceasefire proposal while the IRGC warns any renewed aggression could “extend beyond the region.” Culture Clash: The White House and The Chicks’ Natalie Maines trade insults after her “Our democracy is disappearing” rant. Sports Gulf Cup: Bahrain’s Gulf Cup schedule is confirmed after the Jeddah draw, with Iraq in Group A and Bahrain in Group B alongside Qatar, UAE, and Yemen.