AGP Executive Report

Iran-U.S. Escalation: The U.S. and Iran traded fresh strikes again as Iran prepared to bury slain Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with Iran reporting at least 14 deaths and damage around the Bushehr nuclear area and the U.S. saying it hit about 80 targets to protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Khamenei Funeral in Iraq: Thousands poured into Iraq’s holy cities for Khamenei’s processions in Najaf and Karbala before his coffin was flown to Mashhad for burial, with mourners chanting anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans. Regional Fallout: Jordan’s U.S. embassy warned residents to shelter after missile reports, while Iran said it struck U.S. bases in Bahrain and Kuwait. Iraq Anti-Corruption: Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi vowed the crackdown will continue without “selectivity,” targeting corruption cases across affiliations. Economy & Infrastructure: The World Bank approved $900m for Iraq road corridors, while IMF warnings tied Middle East conflict risk to weaker growth. World Cup Focus: France vs Morocco headlines the quarterfinals, with Iraq’s own World Cup presence still a talking point after France’s earlier win over Iraq.

Karbala Funeral Update: Iran’s slain Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s coffin has moved from Najaf to Karbala, where huge crowds gathered at Imam Hussein’s shrine for final prayers before burial in Mashhad, as Iraq and Iran keep their Shia holy-city mourning tightly linked amid rising regional tensions. US-Iran Escalation: The US Central Command says it has launched additional strikes on Iran to “degrade” Tehran’s ability to threaten navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, after Trump declared the Iran ceasefire “over” and warned more action could come quickly. Regional Diplomacy: In Kuwait, Iraq’s foreign minister met the Crown Prince to discuss bilateral cooperation, underscoring Baghdad’s push to manage ties as the Gulf security situation worsens. Iraq Economy: The Central Bank of Iraq cut the foreign exchange travel allowance for citizens abroad from $3,000 to $2,000 a month, aiming to curb dollar leakage and push more electronic payments. Kurdistan & International Ties: Italy plans to award Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani its top civilian honor, the Order of the Star of Italy, in Erbil.

Khamenei Funeral in Iraq: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s coffin arrived in Najaf and the holy-city processions began, with Iraq declaring a public holiday as crowds moved to the Imam Ali shrine and then toward Karbala. US-Iran Escalation: The fragile US-Iran ceasefire is under strain after fresh strikes around the Strait of Hormuz, with Trump saying the MoU is “over” while Iran warns of “crushing” retaliation. Aviation Disruptions: The EU aviation safety watchdog told airlines to avoid Iran, Iraq and Lebanon airspace until August 31 as tensions rise. Iraq’s Shia Political Theater: Iraqi PM and senior Shia figures attended receptions for Khamenei in Najaf, underscoring deep Iraq-Iran ties amid regional conflict. Local Spotlight: Byara in Kurdistan is pushing to join the UN’s Best Tourist Villages, banking on its historic khanaqah and madrasa. Security Abroad: Europol said it arrested 28 people across Europe and beyond in an online child sexual abuse operation.

Iran-U.S. Escalation: The U.S. revoked a 60-day license allowing Iran to sell oil, hours after three tankers were hit in the Strait of Hormuz, as Washington said the attacks violated the interim ceasefire and would bring “consequences.” New Strikes in the Gulf: CENTCOM said it launched strikes on Iranian targets after the ship attacks, warning it was acting to “impose heavy costs” for attacks on commercial vessels. Maritime Shockwaves: The British military reported the tanker hits, while Qatar accused Iran of striking a Qatari LNG tanker, raising fresh fears for global shipping through the chokepoint. Khamenei Funeral in Iraq: Iran’s late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s coffin arrived in Najaf, where Iraqi officials and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian received it ahead of Wednesday processions to Najaf and Karbala. Regional Signaling: Iran’s former IRGC commander Mohsen Rezaei urged “strategic retribution,” framing revenge as pushing the U.S. out of the region and holding key figures accountable.

Iraq Funeral Preparations: Iraq is set for a three-stage funeral for Iran’s slain Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with official ceremonies in Najaf followed by public processions in Karbala as security and logistics ramp up for massive crowds. Hormuz Shipping Tensions: Fresh attacks in the Strait of Hormuz hit a Qatari LNG tanker, with Iran warning no more peace talks unless Trump halts threats to restart the war, keeping Gulf shipping and energy prices on edge. Energy Market Watch: OPEC+ approved a modest August output increase as crude prices ease, while Iraq’s Basrah crude grades rose in Tuesday trading, tracking global benchmarks near pre-war levels. Regional Diplomacy: A U.S.-Iran agreement is framed as a potential new Middle East opening, but conflicting statements and deep mistrust show the process remains fragile. Local Governance & Services: Bahoz Center in Erbil received a Certified Autism Center™ designation, highlighting expanded autism support and training in Kurdistan Region. Community & Culture: The 14th Arbaeen Walk Festival kicked off from Iraq’s southernmost point under “From Sea to Sacrifice,” with pilgrims heading toward Karbala.

Iraq Oil & Infrastructure: Iraq’s cabinet has approved preliminary deals with major U.S. and Qatari firms to study new strategic crude pipeline routes, including Basra-Haditha-Kirkuk-Ceyhan and Basra-Haditha-Baniyas, while also greenlighting Basra Oil Co. to hire KBR as a consultant for the Basra-Haditha pipeline project. Anti-Corruption Crackdown: Iraq’s judiciary says it seized $20M hidden in “water bottles” in the Al-Jumaili refinery corruption case, adding to a wider haul that totals tens of billions of dinars and more assets as investigations continue. Regional Fallout From Iran Funeral: Tehran’s massive multi-day Khamenei funeral procession continues, with crowds chanting revenge slogans and no public appearance yet by successor Mojtaba, as the body moves toward Iraq’s holy cities. Energy Markets: OPEC+ approved another August output hike of 188,000 barrels per day as oil prices slide back toward pre-Iran-war levels amid improving Strait of Hormuz shipping. World Watch: France’s Macron arrived in Syria, while Iran-Houthi ties and escalation in Yemen remain in focus.

Iran Funeral in Focus: Iran’s week of mourning for slain Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei surged on Monday with a major Tehran procession, heavy security, and airspace closures, while crowds chanted anti-West slogans and called for revenge; three of Khamenei’s sons appeared publicly, but successor Mojtaba Khamenei remained absent, fueling fresh succession questions. Iraq-Iran Link: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is set to travel to Iraq to attend farewell ceremonies, with Khamenei’s body due to move through Najaf and Karbala before burial in Mashhad. Anti-Corruption Drive: In Baghdad, Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi announced rewards for citizens who report corruption-linked assets, as “Dawn Crackdown” expands; Iraq’s judiciary also reported further seizures tied to former oil official Adnan al-Jumaili, including billions of dinars, cash, and gold. Oil & Trade: OPEC+ agreed to raise August output targets by 188,000 bpd, nudging oil prices lower as Strait of Hormuz exports show signs of recovery. Local Watch: Kirkuk confirmed a fourth CCHF case of 2026; in Basra, fishermen reported missing after a Kuwaiti Coast Guard firing incident, and graduates staged a sit-in at Basra Oil Company gates amid reported clashes.

Iran Funeral Diplomacy: Millions pack Tehran for a six-day state funeral for slain Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with three sons praying beside the coffins while successor Mojtaba remains out of public view, as anti-US chants and coded Quranic messaging shape the political signal. Regional Security & Airspace: Tehran plans airspace shutdowns around the ceremonies, with restrictions shifting as the rites move toward burial in Mashhad, while markets brace for volatility. Oil Markets: OPEC+ approved another August output increase of 188,000 barrels per day as Strait of Hormuz exports gradually recover, though shipping remains below pre-war levels. Iraq Policy & Law: Iraqi lawmakers are set to debate a controversial cybercrime bill, with critics warning vague wording could enable harsh penalties and broad censorship. World Cup Weather Disruption: Mexico vs England in the Round of 16 was delayed by about an hour at Estadio Azteca after lightning and severe storms triggered FIFA’s safety protocol.

OPEC+ Oil Watch: OPEC+ ministers agreed to lift August quotas by 188,000 barrels per day, as Hormuz shipping gradually recovers and an uneasy US-Iran truce shapes market expectations. Khamenei Funeral in Focus: Iran held day-two funeral prayers in Tehran for Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with top officials and his sons attending—while successor Mojtaba Khamenei remained absent amid security concerns. Iraq Security: Iraq’s Counter-Terrorism Service said an officer was killed in clashes with ISIS in Kirkuk during operations that also followed airstrikes on suspected hideouts. Iraq Economy & Markets: The US imported zero Iraqi crude for a second time in three weeks, while the dollar in Baghdad and Erbil traded slightly lower around 154,000 dinars per $100. Basra Jobs Protest: Engineering, petroleum, and science graduates blocked Basra Oil Company gates in an open-ended sit-in, demanding oil-sector hiring through profit-making state contracts. World Cup (France): Kylian Mbappé’s 70th-minute penalty sent France past Paraguay 1-0 into the quarterfinals in Philadelphia.

World Cup Shock & Setup: France edged Paraguay 1-0 in Philadelphia as Kylian Mbappé converted a second-half penalty, booking a quarterfinal against Morocco after a tense, low-chance match. Injury Blow for Les Bleus: Vice-captain Aurélien Tchouaméni was ruled out with a groin tear, with Manu Koné stepping in. Iraq in the Tournament Spotlight: France’s run included a 3-0 win over Iraq in group play, keeping the spotlight on Iraq’s World Cup presence. Khamenei Funeral Turns Political: In Tehran, Iran’s state funeral for Ali Khamenei opened with anti-American chants and “revenge” calls, with Hezbollah and Hamas delegations attending ceremonies. Regional Diplomacy Pressure: Egypt urged the US and Iran to keep momentum on their agreement as nuclear talks remain paused during mourning. Iraq Anti-Corruption Push: Iraqi PM Al-Zaidi reiterated the government will keep pursuing corruption cases and recovering state assets despite pressure. Iraq Tourism Drive: Iraq is promoting ecotourism and easing entry procedures, while Duhok expands a major park and golf course to attract visitors.

Iran Funeral Watch: Iran has kicked off a week of public mourning for slain Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with tens of thousands packing Tehran’s Grand Mosalla to view his coffin and those of family members killed in the Feb. 28 strike; chants of “Revenge” and “Death to America” echoed as authorities impose tight security and major closures, and the procession is set to move from Tehran to Qom and then into Iraq’s holy cities before burial in Mashhad. Diplomacy & Attendance: High-ranking Iranian officials and foreign leaders—including Pakistan’s PM, Iraq’s president, and senior figures from China and Russia—attended tribute ceremonies ahead of the multi-city rites. Iraq Security: Iraqi forces killed an alleged ISIS member in a Kirkuk ambush near Qara Salim, as CTS continues preemptive operations against remnants. Iraq Economy: The US dollar slipped in Iraq’s markets, trading around 154,000 dinars per $100 in Baghdad and Erbil. World Cup (Iraq Fans): Round of 16 action continues with France vs Paraguay in Philadelphia and England vs Mexico at 1am UK time, with thunderstorms still a concern.

Khamenei Funeral Diplomacy: Iran kicked off a week of mourning for slain Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with foreign delegations arriving in Tehran and Iraqi officials among the attendees, as Iran seeks to project unity and strength amid ongoing regional tensions. US Pressure Claims: Iran’s media says the US warned countries against attending, with some reportedly downgrading or skipping participation. Kurdistan-Iran Ties: Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani met Iranian leaders in Tehran, stressing stronger Iraq-Iran-KRG relations and dialogue. Iraq Anti-Corruption Fallout: An Iraqi judge warned fraudsters are blackmailing people by exploiting the Al-Jumaili corruption case, urging victims to report attempts to the court. Basra Water Update: Southern Iraq’s Basra saw salinity drop in multiple monitoring points, though the province remains vulnerable after years of drought and reduced river flows. Sports—World Cup Focus: Iraq’s referee development push continues, while FIFA kept England-Mexico kick-off unchanged after a proposed reschedule amid storm concerns.

Khamenei Funeral in Full Swing: Iran has begun a week of mass mourning for slain Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with his coffin lying in state in Tehran as clerics, officials and foreign delegations pay respects; authorities plan a multi-city procession linking Tehran with Shiite holy sites in Iran and Iraq, while security is tightened and millions are expected to gather. Iraq-Iran Solidarity: Iraq’s top leadership has traveled to Tehran for the ceremonies, with Iraqi officials stressing brotherly ties and condemning US-Israeli aggression; Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani also met Iranian leaders to discuss regional stability and cooperation. Regional Security Warnings: Iran’s IRGC warned that any enemy “miscalculation” during the funeral will be met with a response “more crushing than ever,” as Iran also faces fresh concerns over potential attacks. New Details on War Damage: Satellite imagery released after restricted access shows damage across Iranian military and nuclear-related sites, including areas around Bushehr. Iraq at Home: Iraq’s temperatures are hitting new extremes, with climate research warning of rising heat risks across central and southern provinces.

Anti-Corruption Push: Iraq’s parliament urged the government to keep driving its anti-corruption campaign and open major “dangerous” files without delay, after Green Zone raids arrested senior officials and lawmakers. Local Justice: In Mosul, an integrity court detained a former municipality director over alleged misuse of protected green-zone land for a tourist restaurant. Court Ruling: Iraq’s Federal Court of Cassation freed Lt. Gen. Nasser Al-Ghannam in a Nasiriyah military training-camp case tied to heat exhaustion deaths. Kurdistan Diplomacy: Iraq approved new consulates in Erbil for Bahrain, Oman, Ukraine and Azerbaijan, pending final cabinet authorization. Regional Politics: PUK and the New Generation Movement signed a cooperation deal in Sulaymaniyah to coordinate in parliament and push reforms in services, jobs and taxes. Energy Watch: South Korea cut Iraqi crude imports by 80.1% in May as it diversifies away from Middle East supply routes. Sports & Youth: Iraq’s football federation dismissed a U-17 coach and ordered restructuring after permit and certificate issues, while also reshaping plans around the national team.

World Cup Shock: Belgium completed a stunning 3-2 extra-time comeback over Senegal, with Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans scoring late and a controversial 125th-minute penalty deciding it, sending Belgium into the last 16. Iran-U.S. Tensions: Doha talks between Washington and Tehran wrapped with “positive progress” reported by mediators, but the next round is set after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s funeral commemorations; Iran also warned Trump and Israel against any strikes during the ceremonies. Khamenei Funeral in Iraq: Organizers say the Iraq leg will be limited to Najaf and Karbala, with Baghdad excluded due to timing, as security and services are planned for millions of mourners. Iraq Anti-Corruption & Money Flows: The U.S. resumed some cash dollar shipments to Iraq after a suspension tied to Iran-related militia concerns, though security cooperation remains halted. Health Watch: Nineveh confirmed a new Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever case, bringing 2026 totals to 155 infections and 10 deaths. Trade & Borders: Kurdistan’s trade fell in early 2026 after customs ASYCUDA rollout, while Iraq moves to close informal crossings. Courts & Contracts: A Jordanian appeals court ordered a company to compensate Iraq’s South Refineries after a 2011 agreement dispute.

Anti-Corruption Drive: Iraq’s Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s government is pressing ahead with a sweeping crackdown after Green Zone raids, arresting dozens including lawmakers and senior oil-linked figures, with adviser Munir Haddad saying the campaign has “no red lines or time limit” and that trials will be public. Kurdistan-Federal Finance: A KRG delegation is set to meet Iraqi officials in Baghdad to push for budget-share calculations based on the 2024 census (14.1% population) and to settle disputes over non-oil revenues. Regional Diplomacy & Security: Türkiye is using the NATO summit in Ankara to underline its growing role, while its intelligence chief has visited Kirkuk for high-level talks with Turkmen leaders. Energy & Infrastructure: Iraq and Erbil are also moving on power and development, including a solar project for 100 units in an Erbil village and ongoing talks over budget and revenue gaps. World Cup (Iraq-linked): Senegal knocked out Iraq earlier in the tournament, and Belgium then beat Senegal 3-2 in extra time to reach the last 16. Seismic Update: Iraq’s meteorology and seismology body recorded 22 quakes in June, mostly low magnitude, across multiple governorates.