AGP Executive Report

Strait of Hormuz Crisis: Iran says it has shut the Strait of Hormuz to all shipping from June 11 in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes, a move that could choke global oil flows and send prices soaring, with shipping firms already pausing operations and insurers raising premiums. Iraq Security: Iraq’s National Security Service says it foiled an assassination plot targeting its top security chief and senior officers, linking it to a Ba’ath-linked cell, while another operation in Maysan killed two wanted drug traffickers and seized narcotics and weapons. Regional Diplomacy: Jordan’s prime minister told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s own safety, warning that armed non-state groups operating from Iraqi territory are a growing concern. World Cup Fallout for Iraq: FIFA says Iraq striker Aymen Hussein was questioned for hours at Chicago’s O’Hare on arrival, and the team’s photographer was denied entry to the U.S., adding to a wider wave of visa problems affecting tournament access. Economy Watch: The World Bank warns the Iran war is weighing on global growth, with energy and commodity disruptions threatening inflation and pressure on developing states, including Iraq.

Iraq’s World Cup push: Iraq’s national team has moved its final camp to West Virginia’s Greenbrier ahead of the June 16 opener versus Norway, after warm-ups including draws and losses that set the stage for Group I matches against France and Senegal. Visa friction at the tournament: The U.S. has denied entry to some World Cup-linked officials, including a photographer traveling with Iraq’s team, while the Palestinian FA chief Jibril Rajoub says visa refusals are unfair and FIFA can’t override Washington. Security and state arms debate: Iraq’s PM Ali al-Zaidi renewed a pledge to restrict weapons to state control, as paramilitary groups face pressure to disarm amid U.S.-Iran tensions and the strain on Iraq’s oil-linked economy. Regional diplomacy spotlight: Jordan’s PM stressed that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s stability, warning that armed non-state groups operating from Iraqi territory are a growing concern. Oil and trade pressure: Kuwait offered crude to Asian buyers directly for the first time since the 1990-91 Gulf War, signaling how regional conflict and route disruptions are reshaping Middle East energy sales. Global backdrop: A CNN report alleges Israeli special forces operated from Azerbaijan, UAE, Iraq and Somaliland during the Iran conflict, while Britain’s defence turmoil continues after John Healey’s resignation over funding shortfalls.

Iraq-Jordan Security Ties: Jordan’s PM told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s stability, warning that non-state armed groups operating from Iraqi territory are a growing concern. IS Airstrikes in Diyala: Iraqi forces said two IS militants, including a local leader, were killed in airstrikes in eastern Diyala, with ground forces clearing the area afterward. World Cup Focus for Iraq: Iraq released official World Cup portraits as the Lions of Mesopotamia prepare for their June 17 opener against Norway, after a mixed run of friendlies. Basra-Haditha Pipeline Push: Iraq is accelerating work on the Basra-Haditha crude pipeline to boost refining and create export options beyond Hormuz, linking toward Jordan, Syria and Türkiye. Regional Escalation Warning: Iraq condemned attacks on Jordan, Bahrain and Kuwait, urging dialogue and restraint to prevent a wider regional confrontation. Pope Francis Chair Delay: A chair used by Pope Francis during his 2021 Iraq visit still hasn’t reached Dhi Qar’s archaeological museum, despite a government decision to transfer it. US-Iran Deal Talk: Trump said Iran approved peace-deal conditions and he canceled scheduled strikes, while the Strait of Hormuz remains under pressure.

Iraq Security & Diplomacy: Iraq urged an end to regional escalation, stressing dialogue and state-only weapons control as conflicts threaten stability and energy security. Jordan-Iraq Ties: Jordan’s PM told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s own safety, with border and airspace threats from non-state armed groups driving talks. US-Iran Escalation With Iraq in the mix: The U.S. issued fresh warnings to Americans in Iraq as Iran and the U.S. traded strikes, while the IRGC denied Trump’s claim that Iranian officials asked for a halt. World Cup Spotlight on Iraq: With the 48-team tournament starting, Iraq is among the Asian hopefuls and is set to play in Group I alongside France, Senegal and Norway, as visa and entry problems cast a shadow over travel to the U.S. Regional Economy: Jordan’s exports rose 5.1% in early 2026, with Iraq among top destinations—signaling continued trade links despite instability.

Iraq Arms & Militias: Iraq set an end-of-September deadline to disarm Iran-backed armed groups and move weapons under state control as the US-led coalition winds down, but factions tied to Kataib Hezbollah and others say the clock is linked to foreign troop presence. Regional Security: Jordan’s PM told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s own safety, warning that non-state armed activity inside Iraq is a growing concern. Hormuz Pressure: Trump claimed a secret US mission helped push more than 100 million barrels through the Strait of Hormuz despite Iranian restrictions, while warning of renewed strikes if diplomacy fails. Nuclear Safety Alarm: The IAEA said a drone from Iraq hit a generator facility at the UAE’s Barakah nuclear plant, damaging power to Unit 3 and raising fears across the Middle East. World Cup Spotlight (Iraq): Iraq’s World Cup campaign is drawing attention for its unusually high Christian representation, while Iraq’s team also faced US entry scrutiny ahead of kickoff.

Iraq World Cup Run-Up: Iraq’s final warm-up ended in a 2-0 loss to Venezuela, with Cristian Casseres scoring early and Jesus Ramirez doubling the lead after halftime; Iraq finished with 10 men after Ali Youssef was shown a straight red for violent conduct. World Cup Group I: Iraq will open against Norway on June 17, then face France and Senegal in Group I. Iraq-US Entry Friction: Ahead of kickoff, Iraq’s World Cup preparations have been shadowed by reports of long interrogations and denied access for team members at US airports, adding to broader complaints about visa and entry treatment. Regional Security Diplomacy: Jordan’s prime minister told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s own stability, warning that border and airspace threats and non-state armed activity inside Iraq are central to future cooperation. World Cup Media Build-Up: beIN SPORTS unveiled its star-studded MENA broadcast team for World Cup 2026, including major football names, and plans original content spotlighting Arab teams, including Iraq.

Iraq-Jordan Security Ties: Jordan’s PM told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, warning that drone and projectile threats and non-state armed groups operating from Iraqi territory are now central to bilateral talks. Strait of Hormuz Fallout: As the U.S. says it will “respond” to Iran after an Apache helicopter was shot down near the Strait of Hormuz, Washington launched strikes on June 9, raising fears of renewed regional escalation that could further disrupt Iraq’s oil routes. Kurdistan Drone Strike: A drone attack hit Azadî Camp in Hewlêr, with reports of repeated targeting of the camp amid the wider Iran-U.S.-Israel conflict. World Cup Visa Pressure on Iraq: Ahead of the 2026 tournament, Iraq’s team striker Aymen Hussein was detained and questioned at Chicago O’Hare, while an Iraqi photographer was denied entry—sparking criticism of U.S. treatment of World Cup arrivals. Tragedy in Iraq: A bus crash in southern Iraq killed at least 21 people, with identification efforts underway. Oil and Economy Watch: With Hormuz disruption continuing, Iraq’s wider exposure to regional shocks remains in focus, as global oil inventories fall and prices stay volatile.

Iraq–Jordan Security Ties: Jordan’s PM Jaafar Hassan told Iraq’s Speaker Halbousi that Iraq’s security is a core pillar of Jordan’s own safety, stressing shared concerns over drones and non-state armed groups operating across the border. World Cup Return, Iraq in the Spotlight: As the 2026 tournament nears kickoff, Iraq’s World Cup journey is being framed as a test of resilience after war and airspace disruptions forced a grueling travel route; the team is also set for Group I alongside France, Senegal and Norway. Border and Visa Friction Hits the Tournament: Reports say the US has barred some World Cup referees and delayed or denied entry for Iraq-linked team members and fans, raising questions about FIFA’s ability to enforce access promises. Regional Tensions and Oil Pressure: With the Strait of Hormuz still a flashpoint, Iraq’s revenues and export routes remain vulnerable to shipping disruptions, while wider Middle East escalation keeps the pressure on energy markets.

Public Health: Iraq’s health ministry says it has recorded 145 Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever cases since the start of 2026, including 9 deaths, with Dhi Qar the hardest hit. Media Regulation: Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission banned crime TV programs that show suspect interrogations, criminal details, or pre-judge court outcomes, warning they can undermine justice and spread harmful “lessons.” Economy & Prices: Iraq’s consumer prices rose 4.3% year-on-year in April, with the CPI reaching 112.5 points. Housing Push: Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi urged business leaders to back the “one-million residential land plot” initiative and expand self-financing projects, especially in electricity. Agriculture: A fire in Saladin’s Tuz Khurmatu destroyed over 20 dunams of wheat fields; authorities are investigating the cause. Energy Trade: Iraq sent a major fuel shipment into Syria—more than 150 tankers crossed at Rabia–Al-Yarubiyah for export. Regional Security: Jordan’s PM told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s own security, stressing concern over non-state armed groups operating from Iraqi territory.

Iraq-Jordan Security Ties: Jordan’s PM Jaafar Hassan told Iraq’s Speaker Halbousi that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s own stability, warning that armed non-state groups and cross-border drone threats inside Iraq are driving deeper behind-the-scenes coordination. Middle East Escalation: Israel struck Iran’s Mahshahr petrochemical complex as Iran launched missiles toward Israel again, with airspace closures reported across Iran, Iraq and Syria; Trump urged both sides to stop “shooting,” while Iran blamed the US for the renewed fighting. Red Sea Shipping Pressure: Yemen’s Houthis declared a complete navigation ban on Israeli shipping in the Red Sea and warned Israeli movements would be treated as military targets, raising risks for regional trade routes. Oil Market Shock: OPEC+ weighed further output hikes as Hormuz remains effectively shut, pushing Brent and WTI higher on war-driven supply fears. World Cup Focus (Iraq): Iraq’s World Cup preparations stay in the spotlight, with Group I matchups including Iraq vs Norway and France vs Iraq warm-up fallout still shaping attention ahead of the tournament.

Regional Airspace Disruptions: Iraq shut its airspace and suspended air navigation for 72 hours after Iran launched missile barrages at Israel, with Erbil and Kirkuk airports also halting flights; Syria meanwhile closed southern air corridors for 12 hours and suspended operations at Damascus airport. Iran-Israel Escalation: Iran fired missiles at Israel for the first time since the April ceasefire, warning of “more crushing blows” if attacks on Lebanon continue; Israel said it intercepted the barrages and tightened civil defense rules. Iraq Security Moves: Iraqi forces destroyed an ISIS weapons cache in Diyala, while a PKK-linked attack killed a former PKK member in Nineveh. Armed Groups vs State Control: Kataib Hezbollah warned it would target US bases if Washington intervenes, as Iraq pushes steps to bring weapons under state authority. Politics and Courts: Iraq’s judiciary asked parliament to lift an MP’s immunity over alleged $500,000 extortion tied to a Baghdad residential project. Oil Market: OPEC+ approved a fourth straight production quota hike for July, adding 188,000 bpd despite Hormuz-linked disruptions. Road Tragedy: A bus crash near Nassiriya killed 21 and injured 19, prompting a prime minister-ordered investigation.

World Cup Warm-Up: Iraq held European champions Spain to a 1-1 draw in La Coruña as both sides rotated heavily, with Ferran Torres scoring for Spain and Iraq equalising through Mirjas Dusque’s cross. US Border Scrutiny: Ahead of the tournament, Iraq’s striker Aymen Hussein was reportedly questioned for about seven hours at Chicago O’Hare and his phone was inspected before entry was granted; team photographer Talal Salah was held longer and denied entry. Oil and Money Pressure: Iraq’s foreign minister warned Baghdad is printing 25% more cash than its capacity as Iran-war disruptions cut exports, saying a prolonged conflict could trigger a “financial catastrophe” by year-end. Regional Security Read: A report says Gulf confidence in US security has eroded as the Iran war reshaped regional security and shipping, pushing states toward more self-reliance. Sports Spotlight: Iraq also climbed to 56th in FIFA rankings, topping Arab teams in Asia.

World Cup Spotlight: Iraq’s striker Aymen Hussein was held and questioned for nearly seven hours at Chicago’s O’Hare airport after arriving with the squad, while the team’s photographer Talal Salah was detained for more than 10 hours and denied entry to the United States; Iraqi officials say Hussein was eventually allowed in as fans welcomed the team ahead of the tournament. Squad Update: Iraq called up Ahmed Hassan Makenzie to replace Ahmed Yahya, ruled out with a hamstring injury, as the team prepares for Group I against France, Senegal and Norway. Regional Politics: PUK leader Bafel Talabani urged Baghdad to keep a balanced stance between the US and Iran and called for transparency to rebuild trust with Erbil, while KRG Deputy PM Qubad Talabani said parties are ready for a “real agreement” on the next regional government. Oil & Security: Iraq’s Oil Ministry denied US detention of an oil shipment and rejected claims of paying Iran transit fees, as Iraq also said its plan to place weapons under state control applies only to PMF-affiliated factions. Local Impact: A wheat fire in Kirkuk’s Taza Khurmatu destroyed about 10 dunams, and resident doctors in Iraq pressed protests again over delayed pay and permanent appointments.

Militia Disarmament in Iraq: Iran-backed Shi’ite groups Asaib Ahl al-Haq and Kataeb Imam Ali say they’ve started handing weapons to Iraqi state control, with US envoy Tom Barrack praising it as a step toward renewed sovereignty and stability. Gulf Escalation: The US and Iran traded strikes again, with CENTCOM saying it intercepted Iranian missiles and drones aimed toward the Strait of Hormuz and later struck radar sites, while Iran fired ballistic missiles at US facilities in Kuwait and Bahrain. World Cup Warm-ups (Iraq in focus): Spain’s second-string side were held 1-1 by Iraq in A Coruna as Ferran Torres scored and Merchas Doski equalised; Iraq’s World Cup return continues to draw attention ahead of Group I. Power and Daily Life: With blackouts looming, Iraqis are increasingly looking to solar as grid supply remains limited and generator use is costly. Kurdistan Culture: Erbil’s first Kurdish book fair drew over 7,000 visitors on opening day, with the event running for seven days.

World Bank Boost for Iraq’s Roads: The World Bank approved a $900 million package to upgrade Iraq and the Kurdistan Region’s road network, targeting key corridors linking Baghdad with Turkey, Syria and Jordan and aiming to cut unsafe, unreliable travel that hurts trade and access to services. Iraq Security and Regional Tensions: A U.S. travel alert warns Americans to avoid much of the Middle East amid high tensions tied to the Iran conflict, while reports also keep pointing to cross-border military activity around the region. Iraq and the World Cup Return: Iraq’s national team continues building momentum for the 2026 tournament, with coverage highlighting its long wait since 1986 and its warm-up preparations, including a notable Spain warm-up draw. Militias and State Control: Iraq’s political and security scene remains in focus as Iran-backed factions discuss weapons handover and integration into state forces, raising questions about how quickly disarmament can move. Deaths in Training: The U.S. identified a sergeant killed in a northern Iraq training incident, underscoring ongoing risks for coalition forces.

Iraq–World Cup Buzz: Iraq held Spain 1-1 in a World Cup warm-up in La Coruna, with Ferran Torres scoring for Spain before Merchas Doski equalized for Iraq, as Spain rotated heavily and Iraq showed a stubborn defensive shape ahead of the tournament. PMF/State Control: Moqtada al-Sadr’s Saraya al-Salam handed security duties to the Iraqi army in Samarra, a step in the wider push to bring armed wings under state authority while other factions resist disarmament. Iran Pressure via Iraq Ports: After a US-led maritime blockade disrupted Iran’s access to southern ports, Iraq’s Umm Qasr is emerging as a key transit hub for Iran-bound cargo, rerouting shipments through Iraq to keep trade moving. Health in Conflict Zones: WHO warned of worsening infectious disease conditions across Iraq and Syria, citing rising outbreaks and ongoing strain on health services despite ceasefire claims. Regional Tensions/War of Words: Iran called Germany’s failed bid for a UN Security Council seat “a stark rebuke,” linking it to Gaza and Iran-related aggression. Sports Spotlight: Jordan, Qatar, Iraq and Saudi Arabia are all eyeing a World Cup breakthrough as the 2026 tournament approaches.