AGP Executive Report

Sovereignty Day Fallout: Iraq’s PM Ali al-Zaidi ordered an investigation after pro-Iranian PMF forces were filmed trampling a US flag during Baghdad parades; arrests were reported as the government stressed diplomatic norms and legal accountability. Oil & Security: Iraq’s state oil company shipped two million barrels of crude beyond the Strait of Hormuz for the first time in decades as the war disrupts exports and raises risks for tankers. Football Controversy: Iraqi FA president Younis Mahmoud sparked fresh backlash by saying the Gulf Cup isn’t a “major tournament,” despite Iraq’s exit after a 0-2 loss to Saudi Arabia. Sports Calendar: India’s U17 women’s team opens AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers against Iraq in Malaysia, aiming to build on a historic quarter-final run. Arts & Culture: The Chicks kicked off their 20th anniversary “Taking the Long Way” tour, revisiting the 2003 controversy that reshaped their career. Aviation Connectivity: Iraq’s transport ministry says 11 European airlines have applied to fly to Baghdad, with Berlin-Baghdad routes planned.

Iraqi Football: Graham Arnold says Iraq’s early Gulf Cup exit (Khaleeji 27) will be a springboard for the AFC Asian Cup, pointing to deeper squad options and new domestic talent after a group-stage finish of one win, one draw, and a narrow loss. Gulf Cup Final Build-Up: The UAE edged Oman 1-0 to set up a final against Saudi Arabia, with Ousmane Camara scoring the winner and Nicolas Gimenez missing a penalty; Saudi then beat Qatar on penalties. Aviation & Security: Israel is probing whether a flydubai pilot with dual citizenship links to Iran, Syria, or Iraq, after an alleged attempted hijacking involving an axe attack on the captain; officials say background checks and responsibility are being disputed. Najaf Flights: Iraq’s Najaf International Airport will resume daily flights to Iran, with an agreement for 40 flights a day for Iranian airlines (excluding Mahan Air) after a U.S. sanctions waiver. Arts & Culture: Baghdad marks the centenary of three Iraqi poets, while a film spotlight features an Iraqi survivor’s story in China’s “Once Upon a Time in the Middle East.”

Iraq Sovereignty Day: Iraq marked the end of the US-led coalition mission as the last troops and equipment left, with Baghdad celebrating a “symbol of sovereignty” after more than two decades of war. Media & Culture: A new report warns Iraq’s journalism is stuck between partisan money and disinformation, with weak protections leaving many working without contracts or safeguards. Tech & Creativity: Iraq’s AI and digital transformation scene got a spotlight at an ICT exhibition in Baghdad, including an AI image/video verification startup aiming to fight deepfakes. Arts & Books: A feature on “tsundoku” explores why people keep unread books—and what that says about modern reading habits. Sports & Community: Baghdad hosted a mass motorsports festival for Sovereignty Day, while football fans look ahead to Gulf Cup semi-finals featuring Oman vs the UAE. Travel & Faith: Iraq agreed to allow up to 40 Iranian flights daily to Najaf under a US waiver, framed as pilgrimage travel.

Sovereignty Day Sports: Baghdad hosted a major motorsports festival on Oct. 2 to mark Iraqi Sovereignty Day and National Day, with the Iraqi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation and Baghdad Operations Command backing events meant to spotlight stability and community life. Iraq-Iran Travel: Iraq agreed to resume Iranian airline flights to Najaf International Airport with 40 daily trips (excluding Mahan Air), citing humanitarian, medical, tourism and educational needs after protests over the suspension tied to US sanctions. Baghdad Poetry & Music: A “Centenary of the Pioneers” festival in Baghdad marked 100 years since the birth of Iraqi poets Badr Shakir Al-Sayyab, Abdul-Wahab Al-Bayati and Buland Al-Haydari, featuring literary criticism sessions, readings and performances. Gulf Cup Football: Oman and UAE set for a Gulf Cup semi-final in Jeddah, while Qatar coach Julen Lopetegui said his side are ready for their own semi-final challenge as the tournament’s last four take shape. Media & Culture: A film spotlight on “Atonement” (opening Oct. 2) ties Iraq-war civilian perspectives to a true-story adaptation, while broader cultural debate continues to keep Palestine at the center of arts and public conversation.

Iraq–Iran Air Links: Iraq approved 40 daily Iranian flights to Najaf International Airport, with Mahan Air excluded, aiming to ease travel for pilgrims, patients, tourism and education. Literature & Music: Baghdad marked the 100th birth anniversary of three Iraqi poetry giants—Badr Shakir Al-Sayyab, Abdul-Wahab Al-Bayati and Buland Al-Haydari—with readings, criticism sessions and live music across Al-Mutanabbi Street, Al-Rashid Theater and Al-Jawahiri Hall. US Troop Exit & Regional Ripples: Russia welcomed the withdrawal of the last US forces from Iraq, framing it as a step toward restoring sovereignty, while Iran-linked officials and analysts warn the vacuum could reshape militia influence. Arts & Film Spotlight: A new war-drama “Atonement” review highlights an intimate Iraq War story and a brutal rooftop shootout, while streaming picks include “A Complete Unknown.” Sports (Gulf Cup): Saudi Arabia and Qatar set for the Gulf Cup semi-final, with Oman also preparing to face the UAE after dramatic qualification.

Iraq Sovereignty Day: Iraq marked the end of the US-led coalition mission as Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi confirmed the complete withdrawal of forces, launching a new “sovereignty” chapter and a roadmap to June 30, 2027 for disarmament of non-state weapons. Aviation & Sanctions: Iran urged Iraq to lift flight curbs tied to US sanctions and fully restore normal air travel, after Najaf resumed Iran-linked flights while Baghdad, Erbil and Sulaimaniyah stayed suspended—sparking long land journeys and protests. Military Ceremonies: Iraq’s Air Force and Army Aviation plan flyovers over Baghdad and provinces on Friday to mark Sovereignty Day. Culture & Identity: A spotlight on the Iraqi agal—the black headband over the keffiyeh—tracing how it signals dignity and responsibility from childhood to adulthood. Entertainment: The Chicks announced a 20th-anniversary expanded release and tour for Taking the Long Way, adding unreleased tracks and demos. Media Watch: Iran rejected Britain’s claim of involvement in the RAF Fairford incident, while Egypt accused detained journalists of fabricating news for foreign-linked funding.

Sovereignty & Security: Iraqi PM Ali al-Zaidi confirmed the complete withdrawal of the US-led coalition, calling Oct. 1 a “new chapter” and launching a roadmap to disarm non-state armed groups by a June 30, 2027 deadline. Regional Reactions: Iran’s IRGC and Hezbollah both hailed the pullout as a historic victory, while Baghdad warns the move could reshape power dynamics among Iran-backed factions. Arts & Culture: Dream-pop duo Ghostly Kisses added a second Baghdad concert after the first show sold out in hours, signaling strong demand for international live music. Sports: Iraq’s Gulf Cup exit is already triggering talk of a major shake-up at the Iraqi Football Association, with pressure building to end coach Graham Arnold’s contract ahead of bigger tournaments. Heritage Under Pressure: Two prominent Iraqi archaeologists were arrested amid concerns of retaliation linked to public criticism of corruption at the State Board of Antiquities and Heritage.

Iraq-US Exit: The U.S. has completed its full withdrawal from Iraq, ending Operation Inherent Resolve and a 12-year anti-ISIS mission, while Baghdad marks “Sovereignty Days” and Iraq’s leaders frame the pullout as a new era. Security Aftermath: Analysts warn the departure could leave space for Iran-backed militias and raise fears of an ISIS resurgence. Defense Tech Shift: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a new Autonomous Warfare Command and other major military changes, signaling a bigger push toward drones and AI. Football Spotlight: Iraq’s early exit from the 2027 Arabian Gulf Cup has triggered calls for a full review of the football system, from youth development to domestic competition standards. STEM Win: Iraq’s Ibda’ Club for Smart Skills won first place at the 17th Arab Robotics and AI Championship in Alexandria, extending its regional streak. Arts & Film: Kenneth Branagh’s “Atonement” examines scars of the Iraq war, while a documentary review highlights Salman Rushdie’s survival story after the 2022 attack.

Iraq-US Withdrawal: The U.S. military has completed its full pullout from Iraq, ending the 12-year anti-ISIS mission after troops left the last base in Erbil under the Baghdad-Washington deal. President Donald Trump called it “orderly” and a victory over ISIS, while Iraqi forces and crowds in Baghdad and Najaf marked the moment as a new “sovereignty” phase. Sovereignty Days: Iran-aligned armed factions held “Sovereignty Days” rallies in Baghdad, displaying drone replicas and celebrating the end of the coalition mission. Telecom Fallout: Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission ordered Korek Telecom to pay 500 billion dinars (about $382m) and get tax clearance before resuming operations, following court action over a canceled settlement. Arts & Culture (Iraq-linked): Mathaf is set to present Baghdad Modern Art Group exhibitions, including “What Lingers in the Artist Mind” and a show on legacies and experiments—keeping local art history in the spotlight as the political landscape shifts.

Iraq-US Exit & Sovereignty Days: The US is set to end its anti-ISIS mission and withdraw from its last bases in Iraq, a move Baghdad frames as sovereignty while analysts warn it could open space for Iran-backed militias and a possible ISIS rebound. Oil & Leverage: A report explains how US control of Iraq’s oil revenue flows through the Federal Reserve Bank of New York has long given Washington major leverage over Baghdad. Aviation & Sanctions: Iraqi Airways received special permission to resume Najaf–Iran flights in October, after US sanctions tightened Iranian aviation access and Iraq sought exemptions. Watan Initiative Housing: Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi pushed the Justice Ministry to speed up a real-estate database under the Watan Initiative, with online registration planned next month and infrastructure contracting underway for prepared plots. Gulf Cup Football: Oman shocked Kuwait 3-1 to reach the semi-finals, while Iraq’s fate was decided by a draw of lots after finishing level with Oman—an outcome that sparked major debate in the region. Iran Economy & Medicines: Iran’s medicine prices reportedly tripled as sanctions and a blockade strain pharmaceutical supplies, leaving families scrambling for treatments. Stevie Awards Call: The 2027 Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards opened for entries across 17 MENA countries, including Iraq, with no entry fees.

Iraqi Aviation & Sanctions: Iraq’s Ministry of Transport says Iraqi Airways will resume flights to Iran in October, with services operating only from Najaf International Airport after special permission and regulatory conditions following US aviation sanctions. Cultural Diplomacy: Mathaf (Arab Museum of Modern Art) will present “What Lingers in the Artist Mind: Experiments and Legacies of the Baghdad Modern Art Group,” spotlighting the 1951 Baghdad Modern Art Group from Oct. 25, 2026 to Feb. 6, 2027. Arts & Business: Iraq’s unified pavilion at LEAP 2026 in Riyadh showcased Iraqi tech, fintech, digital transformation, logistics, tourism, and creative industries, including Qafia Creative Agency’s leadership. Sports Spotlight: Iraq’s Ali Ammar narrowly misses Asian Games gold in weightlifting after a late clean-and-jerk timing mishap, taking silver. Heritage Under Pressure: Two Iraqi archaeologists were arrested amid backlash over alleged corruption at the State Board of Antiquities and Heritage, raising fears for Iraq’s archaeological work. Entertainment Buzz: Streaming guides and TV coverage keep rolling, with major international series and films trending for tonight’s viewing.

Baghdad Modern Art Spotlight: Qatar Museums (Mathaf) announced “What Lingers in the Artist Mind: Experiments and Legacies of the Baghdad Modern Art Group,” running Oct. 25, 2026 to Feb. 6, 2027, tracing the 1951 Baghdad Modern Art Group’s Iraqi modernist language through 17 themed sections and major works by figures like Jewad Selim and Shakir Hassan Al Said. Iraq Sports & Culture: Iraq is set to host the 28th Arabian Gulf Cup, with a proposal to split groups between Basra and Dhi Qar. Local Arts & Community: A Mosul lecturer was detained after allegations tied to Nineveh state land near an ancient Assyrian site, raising questions around heritage oversight. Entertainment Buzz (Regional): Taylor Swift made MTV VMA history, winning top honors and dedicating her prize to Dolly Parton. Sports on the Move: Iraq’s wrestling team arrived in Nagoya for the Asian Games, with two athletes set for Greco-Roman and freestyle events.

Gulf Cup Football: Kuwait and Oman meet in the final Group A round today, while Saudi Arabia hosts Iraq in a must-win setup for Iraq’s semifinal hopes; the rivalry is already heating up after fresh comments from former Iraqi players sparked Saudi backlash. Aviation & Sanctions: Iraqi Airways resumed flights between Najaf and Iranian airports after Baghdad said it was working to restart religiously significant routes amid US aviation curbs; Iran later denied any confirmed resumption date. Security & Regional Tensions: Kurdistan’s Peshmerga ministry warned that the Sept. 30 end of the US-led mission leaves the region exposed, citing heavy drone and missile strikes and urging stronger air-defense coordination with Baghdad. Tech & Media Business: An Iraqi court overturned a regulator’s move to nullify Korek Telecom’s financial settlement, restoring the contract’s validity. Arts & Entertainment (Global): Taylor Swift made MTV VMA history, while “Avengers: Endgame” returned to the box office crown and “Heart of the Beast” stayed in the spotlight.

Iraq–US Diplomacy: Iraq’s new ambassador to Washington, Krikor Der Hagopian, presented credentials to President Trump, pledging a “new era” in Iraqi-American ties across politics, investment, and security. AI & Media Policy: Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission opened public consultation on a draft AI regulation covering data protection, transparency, security, and innovation. Gulf Cup Football: Iraq stunned Kuwait with a 3-2 Gulf Cup win, but tempers flared after the final whistle, with scuffles and on-pitch abuse claims involving Zidane Iqbal and Kuwait players. Regional Security: In Erbil’s Koya district, Asayish said three drones hit the Azadi camp, home to Iranian Kurdish opposition figures, with no casualties reported. Sanctions & Travel: Iraqi political and religious figures urged Baghdad to reverse the suspension of Iranian flights, warning it undermines sovereignty and harms pilgrims, students, and patients. Energy Flows: Syria’s Petroleum Company began shipping gasoline to Iraq via the Banias terminal under a three-month deal, as Strait of Hormuz instability disrupts routes. Cultural Heritage: A new study highlights how archaeologists risked their lives to save about 30,000 artifacts from the Deir ez-Zor Museum during ISIS threats.

Cultural Heritage Under Fire: A new study says archaeologists risked their lives to evacuate about 30,000 artifacts from Syria’s Deir ez-Zor Museum to protect them from ISIS in 2014-2015, highlighting how trust and fast decisions matter when war makes “perfect timing” impossible. Football & Identity: Iraq stunned Kuwait 3-2 in Gulf Cup 27 with a stoppage-time winner, and Zidane Iqbal later described abuse from Kuwait fans over his father’s Pakistani roots—pushing the rivalry beyond the pitch. Sports Discipline & Pressure: Kuwait’s early Gulf Cup exit sparked debate on TV and among former players, with calls for more experience despite strong performances. Kirkuk Security: Iraqi forces killed two ISIS members wearing suicide belts and arrested a third in Kirkuk, but a civilian woman died during a related operation after mortar fire. Arts & Pop Culture: AP reports “Avengers: Endgame” re-release reclaimed the box office crown, while MTV VMAs gear up with Taylor Swift’s new Artist Director Honors and Madonna leading nominations. Energy Innovation: A look at floating power plants explains how offshore generation can feed coastal grids where space is tight.

Iraq–US Sanctions Talks: Baghdad is in direct talks with Washington to exempt some Iraqi airports so flights to Iran can resume on “humanitarian” grounds like medical care, education, religious visits, and civilian needs, after several airports suspended Iran routes amid new US aviation sanctions. Regional Security & Sovereignty: Iraq says the US-led coalition headquarters will close Sept. 30 and insists security is stable with no foreign bases on Iraqi territory, while the cabinet also declared a four-day state holiday for “Sovereignty Days” (Sept. 30–Oct. 3). Kurdistan War Worries: In Iraqi Kurdistan, residents describe “worry and sorrow” as the Iran–US conflict reopens old wounds, with fears that renewed fighting could spill across borders again. Oil Exports vs Timetables: Baghdad may control northern crude exports, but Turkey still sets the pace for full pipeline flow via Kirkuk–Ceyhan. Arts & Pop Culture: Dolly Parton’s estate dispute is back in the spotlight, with reports of alleged threats and an attempted “extortion” tied to her $450m fortune. Sports (Gulf Cup 27): Iraq’s Gulf Cup campaign continues as they beat Kuwait 3-2, while Oman and Saudi’s 3-0 result leaves the group tight.