Luigi1

Here's another article related to the above...Iran is losing control of the Strait after claims it's still in control... Iran's Biggest Weapon Against The US May Be Slipping Away, Experts Say. ARTICLE: Global crude production will rebound to near pre-conflict levels by end of year despite Gulf instability, EIA forecasts. Iran's latest attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz sent oil prices sharply higher in recent days — a reminder that Tehran can still rattle global energy markets. But the latest spike also highlights a bigger question facing the Trump administration: Has Iran begun losing its ability to use the strategic waterway as economic leverage over Washington? Growing oil production, alternative export routes and new shipping patterns suggest Iran's ability to weaponize the Strait of Hormuz may be steadily weakening — even if it can still trigger short-term price shocks.

The foundation has been set. Go GCR.

Here's some articles of GCR interests... The main headline are: -Iran Issues New Threats Calling For The Assasination Of Trump. -We Will Kill You Trump, As Iran Develops A New Assasination Plan. Treat as rumors. Not verified. Your opine. Trump Left Specific Instructions To Have Iran ‘Obliterated’ If He's Assasinated. ARTICLE: President Donald Trump told Fox News' senior WH correspondent Peter Doocy in February 2025 that he left instructions to have Iran "obliterated" if the regime ever assassinated him. The comments found new light Friday after a Thursday report from The WSJ revealed that Israeli officials informed Trump of a new Iranian plot to assassinate him. "That would be a terrible thing for them to do… If they did that, they would be obliterated," Trump said in the Oval Office on Feb. 4, 2025. "That would be the end. I’ve left specific instructions. If they do it, they get obliterated. There won’t be anything left." His remarks came about a year before Operation Epic Fury began. At the time, Doocy asked Trump about the possibility of Iran trying to assassinate him as retaliation for the 2020 strike that killed Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani. Just last week, signs held at the funeral procession of Iran's former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed during the first wave of strikes when Operation Epic Fury began in late February 2026, had the message, "We Will Kill Trump." Trump Says He's Iran's 'No. 1' Target As Renewed Conflict Raises Assassination Fears. ARTICLE: One thing was clear from President Donald Trump’s appearance at the NATO summit in recent days: He believes Iran wants him dead. "I'm No. 1 on the kill list for Iran," the president told reporters Wednesday. "I like being No. 1 on TikTok better." Trump returned to the subject repeatedly throughout the summit — with a level of candidness that might seem unusual for any other president. A new report suggests US officials may have had fresh intelligence to support concerns about the threat: The Wall Street Journal reported Thursday that Israel recently shared intelligence with the US indicating Iran had developed a new plan to assassinate Trump. Tough Talk. ARTICLE: Trump reiterates 'cease fire talks are over' despite US agreeing to Iran's request for more talks. President Donald Trump said Friday the US has agreed to resume talks with Iran but reiterated that the ceasefire is over. "The Islamic Republic of Iran has asked us to continue “talks.” We have agreed to do so, but the US has stated to them, in no uncertain terms, that the Cease Fire are OVER!" Trump wrote in a Friday morning post on Truth Social. Trump had already declared the US-Iran memorandum of understanding (MOU) — including its ceasefire provisions — over after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) attacked three commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. UN Shipping Agency Urges Nations To Reject Iran's Strait Of Hormuz Authority Claims. ARTICLE: Countries should reject ongoing efforts by Iran to exert authority over the Strait of Hormuz, the UN shipping agency's governing council said on Friday, according to Reuters. The UN's Int'l Maritime Organization (IMO), based in London, regulates int'l shipping & prevents pollution. The IMO agreed that Iran should not be allowed to "establish an entity purporting to control traffic through the Strait," according to a text of a non-binding decision. The IMO called on its 176 member states NOT to recognize "Iran's ‌claim ⁠of sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz" & to reject any attempt by Iran to obstruct ships transiting through the narrow waterway. This comes after Iran created a new body called the Persian Gulf Strait Authority, which claims no vessel can pass through the strait "without a valid passage permit." Nevertheless, some nations are already paying extortion fees of up to $1 million per oil tanker & cargo vessel for safe passage. Oil importers say the added costs will be past on to the consumers. Iran maintains it's still in full control of the Strait, not the US. A Last Ditch Effort To Avert All Out War. ARTICLE: Qatari negotiators traveled to Iran for US-coordinated de-escalation talks: source Qatari negotiators have traveled to Iran after a fragile truce between the US & Tehran talks broke down in the last 48 hours, Fox News has learned. "Qatari negotiators have travelled to Iran, in coordination with the US to meet with Iranian officials in an effort to de-escalate the situation & create the conditions for negotiations to resume," a source with knowledge of the situation told Fox News senior foreign correspondent Trey Yingst. Iran is not backing down from it's position. Source Strait of Hormuz Security Threat Level Remains 'SEVERE,' Maritime Watchdog Says. ARTICLE: The UK Maritime Trade Organization (UKMTO) warned that the threat level in the Strait of Hormuz remains "SEVERE" in a Friday update. "Notwithstanding recent unprovoked attacks on merchant vessels, mariners are reminded that the southern route of the SoH has been expanded & remains available for all traffic," the organization warned in a Friday advisory. The advisory counseled mariners to maintain contact with NATO's Naval Cooperation & Guidance for Shipping (NCAGS) & to watch out for mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Twenty-two vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday amidst renewed US & Iranian strikes, Fox News' Lauren Simonetti reported. Two of the 22 were oil tankers. The 22 vessels that crossed Thursday surpassed the daily average that crossed the key oil shipping route at the Iran war's height in April & May, but it's far less than the daily average of 50 vessels that transited in June after the US & Iran agreed to a partial ceasefire on June 14. Before the war's February kickoff, an average of more than 120 vessels crossed the Strait daily, according to data from the UN Conference on Trade & Development. Iran claims the attacks on int'l shipping in the Strait will continue until their demands are met.

Totally agree. The 1st of August is a very good window of opportunity. Go RV.

There was an article out of Iraq about two weeks ago about CBI releasing a new currency at the beginning of 2027. That sounds a lot like the release of the new lower denoms. Could that also be the RV-RI date? If so...then our wait is finally coming to an end. Go RV.

Here's another article of Dinarian interests...the Iraqi economy is not the only concern...is also a global issue... IMF Cuts Global Growth Forecast As War & Inflation Reshape The Global Economy. ARTICLE: The International Monetary Fund has lowered its global growth outlook, warning that geopolitical conflict, elevated energy prices & growing economic fragmentation are creating new challenges for the world economy & increasing uncertainty for financial markets. Overview: The IMF lowered its 2026 global economic growth forecast from 3.1% to 3.0%, citing geopolitical tensions, higher energy prices & trade fragmentation. Inflation is expected to remain elevated through 2026, driven largely by higher oil prices following Middle East instability. The report warns that renewed conflict or further disruptions to global trade could slow growth even more, highlighting the fragile state of the global economy. Key Developments: 1. IMF Lowers Global Growth Outlook. The IMF reduced its forecast for 2026 global economic growth to 3.0%, reflecting the impact of geopolitical uncertainty, weaker international trade & slower investment. Although the IMF expects growth to improve in 2027, it projects expansion will remain below recent historical averages. 2. Higher Energy Prices Continue to Drive Inflation. The IMF expects global inflation to average about 4.7% in 2026, with much of the increase attributed to higher energy costs following conflict in the Middle East. Elevated fuel prices continue to place upward pressure on transportation, manufacturing & food costs worldwide. 3. Strait of Hormuz Remains a Critical Risk. The IMF's forecast assumes that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz gradually returns to normal & that oil markets stabilize. However, officials cautioned that any renewed disruption could significantly weaken growth & trigger additional inflationary pressures. 4. Trade Fragmentation Continues to Slow Growth. The IMF warned that increasing trade fragmentation & geopolitical divisions continue to weigh on business investment, global supply chains & int'l commerce. Economies dependent on imported energy & commodities remain particularly vulnerable. 5. Central Banks Face a More Difficult Paths. With inflation remaining above many central bank targets, policymakers may be forced to maintain restrictive monetary policies longer than expected. The IMF emphasized that clear communication & prudent policy decisions will be essential as economic uncertainty persists. Why It Matters: The IMF's outlook is one of the most closely watched assessments of the global economy. Slower growth combined with persistent inflation creates a challenging environment for governments, businesses & central banks as they attempt to balance economic stability with long-term financial sustainability. Why It Matters To Foreign Currency Holders: Foreign currency investors should closely monitor global growth forecasts, inflation & central bank policy. These factors influence ER, capital flows, sovereign debt & the timing of broader monetary reforms that could affect int'l financial markets. Implications For The Global Reset: Pillar 1 – Debt. Persistently higher inflation & slower growth make it more difficult for governments to manage rising debt levels, increasing pressure for fiscal reforms & more sustainable public finances. Pillar 2 – Trade. The IMF warns that trade fragmentation & geopolitical tensions continue to weaken global commerce, reinforcing efforts by many nations to diversify supply chains & reduce dependence on traditional trade routes. Pillar 5 – Energy. The outlook highlights how energy security remains a major driver of inflation & economic stability, with the Strait of Hormuz continuing to play a critical role in global oil markets. This is not just about a lower economic forecast—it highlights how debt, trade & energy security are becoming increasingly interconnected as the global financial system adapts to a more uncertain & fragmented world.

Here's an article of Dinarian interests...its not all doom & gloom...here's some insights on Iraq's future economy... Ariel: Iraq Dinar Sitrep, Preparation For The Market Economy. ARTICLE: Iraq Dinar Sitrep: Preparation For The Market Economy (I Think You Will Like This Update). Are You Ready To Dive In? The CBIs moves full reintegration of Dollar banks under tighter oversight, mandatory ASYCUDA electronic customs declarations kicking in hard around July 10 are choking those old loopholes. No more paper invoices sliding through borders unchecked. Revenue’s already spiking in some reports, smuggling routes drying up & that forces real domestic velocity. Non-oil pushes from Saleh aren’t slogans; they’re the pivot away from the oil rentier trap that kept Baghdad hooked on external flows & vulnerable to manipulation. Targeting that GDP non-oil lift toward 55% means agriculture ramps, industrial reactivation, private SME financing that actually sticks all building a base where a credible ER can hold without constant central bank props. And this is where all of your patience is paying off people. Think about this for a second if you wil. Imagine your local currency market where Dollars traded at a fat premium because everyone distrusted the system. Now the official channels tighten, customs go digital & people start parking more in Dinar because the local economy shows signs of breathing on its own. That’s The Precursor: A market-oriented Iraq doesn’t need the old suppressed auction theater; it needs a rate that reflects actual trade muscle for direct dealings with partners like the US. This parallel squeeze pairs with Budget restructuring that’s ditching the old 1/12 monthly placeholders for real 2027 planning. Zaidi’s team is using the breathing room to align fiscal policy for non-oil revenue targets that make Iraq less of a petro-pawn. Think grain purchases above global prices, factory fuel/tech imports, land allocations the kind of private sector incentives that absorb labor & build internal resilience. The old cabal-adjacent networks loved the Dollar auction casino because it funneled liquidity their way. Choking it starves those veins while prepping Iraq for Forex-level credibility. This couldn’t have happened at a better time folks.

Here's another article of Dinarian interests...IMF report... IMF Sees Iraq Contraction Before 2027 Rebound. ARTICLE: Middle East & Central Asia growth is projected to fall to 0.7% in 2026 before rebounding to 6.5% in 2027, with Iraq among the commodity producers expected to contract sharply this year, the International Monetary Fund said. In its July World Economic Outlook update, the IMF grouped Iraq with Kuwait & Qatar as the producers most affected by disruptions to energy output and transport, linking the downturn to a longer closure of the Strait of Hormuz than it assumed in April. The Fund cut this year’s regional forecast by 1.2 percentage points & raised next year’s by 1.9 points, reflecting a deeper short-term hit and a larger expected rebound. Saudi Arabia is expected to be less affected because of more diversified export routes, with growth projected at 1.7% in 2026 and 5.5% in 2027. Globally, the IMF projected growth at 3.0% in 2026 and 3.4% in 2027, saying the outlook remains uneven and exposed to developments in the Middle East.

Iraq can base the RV on what it has in the ground...real assets...real collateral. Besides oil & natural gas, Iraq has rare earth minerals, gold, silver, diamonds, copper, phosphates & others. Last month, new larger deposits of rare earth minerals were discovered in northern Iraq. Zaidi is coming to the US to ask for help about developing these deposits & bringing them to market. If we don't jump on this then China & Russia will. This will mean jobs for Iraqis & the US has first crack at purchasing these minerals. Iraq rank 5th in the world in known rare earth mineral deposits & that don't even count what's yet to be explored. Almost weekly, Iraqis are finding even more newly dicovered deposits. Iraq may be struggling right now but it has collateral & lots & lots of it. Remember, Iraq had the world's strongest currency in the 1930s through the 1950s & that was based on oil production, alone.

Iraq is broke. A WB report says Iraq's prospects don't look good going into the 3rd & 4th quarters. Iraq suffered the most of all the nations in the region due to the war. They can't even fulfill the Budget needs without doing somethingdrastic like the RV or massive borrowing. IMHO.

Here's another article of Dinarian interests...a stronger Dinar? ASYCUDA can make that happen... Dinar Den: Another Major Step Toward A Stronger Dinar. ARTICLE: For long-term investors in the Iraqi dinar (IQD), the landscape of Iraq’s economic policy has always been complex. Recently, veteran investor Stephen, who has been following the Iraqi market since 2011, shared critical insights regarding a major technological upgrade that could serve as a foundational pillar for potential currency revaluation: the implementation of the ASYCUDA system. This United Nations-developed platform is designed to modernize Iraq’s customs operations, bringing a level of digital accountability that has long been absent. The shift toward the ASYCUDA (Automated System for Customs Data) platform, scheduled for an early July rollout, is more than just a software update; it is an anti-corruption initiative. Historically, Iraq’s economy has struggled with the leakage of revenue through counterfeit invoices, systemic smuggling & the undervaluation of imported goods—all facilitated by antiquated, paper-based tracking. By digitizing customs, the Iraqi government aims to ensure accurate record-keeping of all imports and exports, thereby reclaiming significant tax revenue that was previously lost to illicit activity. Stephen emphasizes that the implementation of ASYCUDA is a prerequisite for financial stability. For a currency to gain strength on the international stage, a nation must demonstrate reliable banking, robust trade compliance & a decrease in corruption. By curbing money supply mismanagement through improved border control, the government is effectively aligning itself with global financial standards. This digital transformation is a clear signal that the nation is working toward the structural integrity required to support a stronger, more stable currency. While the customs system is a major milestone, it is part of a broader, multi-faceted reform effort currently underway in Iraq. Stephen points to several other key initiatives, including the adoption of digital banking, more stringent anti-money laundering policies & a visible commitment from government leadership to tackle systemic corruption. According to Stephen, these compounding reforms suggest that the country is preparing for a new economic chapter. While he cautions that the timeline for any potential currency revaluation remains subject to change—with his outlook leaning toward August rather than July—he maintains a sense of cautious optimism. The broader geopolitical environment, including tensions in the region, adds a layer of complexity to the investment outlook. However, Stephen argues that the focus should remain on the tangible economic data and the systemic reforms being enacted on the ground. By prioritizing transparency and trade modernizations, Iraq is positioning itself to better manage its national wealth. As these changes take root, the ASYCUDA system represents a significant step forward in the country’s long-term journey toward economic revitalization. To get the full scope of Stephen’s analysis and to stay informed on these evolving developments, you can watch the complete video breakdown on The Dinar Den. As with any int'l investment, staying informed on the intersection of technology, governance & economics is essential for navigating the future of the Iraqi Dinar.

A ray of hope: Iraq may need the RV to happen before the 2027 Budget in order for it to succeed. IMHO.

Here's some articles of Dinarian interests... Direct From The SANDBOX Report. The main story is. -The Iraqi Economy Will Continue To Be The Most Deeply Impacted In Region. Treat as rumors. Not verified. Your opine. FROM IRAQI SOURCES: IMF Expects Severe Contraction In Iraq’s Economy In 2026. ARTICLE: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projected on Thursday that Iraq’s economy will be the most hit by oil & transportation disruptions in the Middle East & Central Asia in 2026. The IMF also predicted a robust economic rebound in 2027, when energy market conditions improve & commerce resume, local news outlet Shafaq News reported. In its recent World Economic Outlook report, the IMF projected that Middle Eastern and Central Asian countries will see a sharp drop in growth to 0.7 percent in 2026, before rebounding to 6.5 percent in 2027. These forecasts assume that energy interruptions will last longer than previously predicted. The economies of Iraq, Kuwait & Qatar, which are heavily reliant on commodities, will experience significant impacts from disruptions in energy production & transportation. These nations are expected to face an economic downturn in 2026, followed by growth rates exceeding ten percent in 2027. The anticipated fall in 2026 will mainly result from the disruption in oil production & distribution, especially by those nations that depend heavily on energy exports, but the recovery in 2027 will be brought about by a reduction of these shocks & resumption of business activities. The IMF’s latest prediction reduces the region’s growth forecast for 2026 by 1.2 percent from the April report, while the 2027 forecast is lifted by about 1.9 percent, suggesting expectations of a stronger rebound. The IMF, on the other hand, expects Saudi Arabia to remain largely unaffected due to its more diverse export channels, with an economic growth of 1.7 percent in 2026 & 5.5 percent in 2027. Iraq Tightens Iran Dollar Controls As US Restarts Shipments. ARTICLE: The US has restarted supplies of USD banknotes to Iraq after Baghdad agreed to take further steps to stop American cash from reaching Iran & Iran-backed armed organizations, The WSJ reported, citing Iraqi & US officials. The outbreak of the Iran war in late February froze shipments of physical Dollars from Iraq’s oil revenues held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, enforced by the UST Department & shipments were suspended for some four months, putting pressure on Baghdad’s cash-based economy. Under the deal, Iraq promised to tighten its financial system, including stricter regulation of currency exchange firms & efforts to prevent US cash from reaching Iran or Iran-backed militias via salaries & other financial channels. Iraq agreed to put in place extra protections to prevent armed organizations from abusing its banking system, a UST official told the newspaper, & shipments resumed. Iraqi authorities said Dollar payments had resumed but did not disclose the new terms publicly. During the delay, the UST Department canceled at least two cash shipments, including one for around $500 million, before delivery resumed late last month, The WSJ said. The deal comes as PM Ali Falih Al-Zaidi aims to boost economic ties with Washington while pushing domestic banking reforms. Al-Zaidi is set to go to the US later this month to have meetings with President Donald Trump, the newspaper added. The report also mentioned that the Trump administration has pushed Baghdad to limit the role of Iran-backed militias, including steps to tighten monitoring of cash flows & increase official control over armed organizations. Analysts told The WSJ that there are big political obstacles to enacting such regulations, given the entrenched role of militia groups in Iraq’s political & security scene. Since 2003, Iraq has depended on supplies of USD banknotes since most of its economy is still cash-based. Access to actual Dollars is a key source of liquidity for Iraq’s banking sector since oil profits are kept at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York before being released to Iraq. The new deal is part of a wider push by Washington to tighten financial controls in Iraq while reducing the ability to evade sanctions & move dollars illegally across borders, as Baghdad grapples with balancing its strong economic links with the US & neighboring Iran. After The Decline - A New Rise In Dollar Prices In Iraq Today. ARTICLE: Published Sumerian News, the ER of the Dollar against the Dinar in the Iraqi local markets on Thursday, July 9, 2026. The sale price is 154500 Dinars for 100 Dollars. The purchase price is 153650 Dinars for 100 Dollars. It was Cabinet On February 7, 2022, it was announced that the Dollar ER would be adjusted to 1320 Dinars to the Dollar. Between High & Low - The Latest Update Of Gold Prices In Iraq. ARTICLE: Published Sumerian News Foreign and Iraqi gold prices in the local markets in the capital Baghdad Today is Thursday, July 9, 2026. The sale price of Iraqi gold karat 21 amounted to 857 thousand & Dinars, compared to 853 thousand Dinars for purchase. In the jewelers' shops, the selling price of the gold weight of the Gulf karat 21 ranged between 890 thousand & 900 thousand Dinars. Global gold prices continue to rise in record highs, with investors increasingly confident that the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates in September, as well as rising economic & geopolitical uncertainty, along with expectations of a reduction in US interest rates. Globally - Oil Prices Continue To Rise In Early Trading. ARTICLE: Oil prices rose on Thursday after US New strikes against Iran to diminish hopes of ending the war & reopening Strait of Hormuz Completely. ‎By 00:54 GMT, crude futures had risen.Brent" at 1% to $78.8 per barrel. The futures contracts for West crude increased. Texas The US broker is 1.01% to $74.26. ‎Before that, the two benchmarks at the settlement reached their highest levels in more than two weeks after the US president threatened Donald Trump Bombing Iran Last night. ‎He said U S Army He carried out new strikes on Iran in order to keep Strait of Hormuz vitality is open to navigation, hours after saying Trump The interim agreement to end the war is “over.”

Here's some articles of Dinarian interests... Direct From The SANDBOX Report. The main headline is: -The Issues Facing Zaidi Ahead Of His US Visit. Treat as rumors. Not verified. Your opine. FROM IRAQI SOURCES: Al-Mustaqilla Reveals: 3 Key Issues In Al-Zaidi's Visit To Washington. ARTICLE: As attention turns to Iraqi PM Ali al-Zubaidi's visit to Washington on July 15, information obtained by Al-Mustaqilla reveals that the economic agenda will be at the forefront of the talks, with an American focus on financial files related to Iran, while the file of combating corruption is absent from the visit's agenda. According to an informed source, the talks will focus on three main axes: The 1st: Of which is the issue of weapons & restricting them to the state while the 2nd & 3rd axes: Will be purely economic, relating to monitoring the movement of the Dollar & Iranian economic interests inside Iraq. The source indicates that Washington will discuss with the Iraqi side mechanisms to curb Dollar smuggling to Iran & tighten oversight of the Iraqi financial system to prevent hard currency from reaching entities subject to US sanctions. This comes amid continued US pressure on Baghdad to reform the banking sector & strengthen financial compliance. The 3rd axis: relates to Iranian economic influence within Iraq, whether through companies or trade & financial transfer networks. This is an issue that the US believes is directly linked to the effectiveness of the sanctions imposed on Tehran & to the stability of the Iraqi financial system. According to the source, the visit's agenda does not include any item related to combating corruption or opening major corruption files, despite the campaign announced by the government during the past period. This raises questions about the priorities of the talks with the American administration, which seem to be focused on financial security, the movement of the Dollar & economic relations with Iran more than on internal reform files. Observers believe that the nature of these files reflects Washington’s interest in securing the Iraqi financial system & preventing its use as a loophole to circumvent sanctions, at a time when Baghdad is seeking to maintain the stability of the Dinar’s ER & ensure the continued flow of Dollars through official channels, amid escalating financial & regional challenges. Zaidi In Front Of The "Big Whales" Test. Washington Is Waiting To Prove Seriousness In The Files Of Corruption & Weapons Nearly $300 Billion Has Fled Out Of Iraq. ARTICLE: Before PM Ali al-Zaidi landed in Washington in mid-July, Baghdad seems to have found itself in front of a sensitive political test, entitled the funeral of former Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei & a number of his family members in Iraq. The event, which is supposed to fall within the framework of religious ceremonies, quickly turned into a political file where the calculations of Baghdad, Tehran & Washington intersect, to become one of the 1st decades before the upcoming meeting between Zaidi & US President Donald Trump. Although the visit to the WH comes amid signs of improved relations between Baghdad & Washington, it still faces serious questions about Zaidi’s ability to implement the commitments contained in the understandings concluded between the two sides in what has become known as the “June settlement.” On the other hand, observers believe that the prime minister has made significant progress over the past week towards the US administration, after launching a wide campaign to prosecute officials accused of corruption, in a move seen as an attempt to prove the seriousness of the implementation of the pledges made to Washington. Iranian Pressure - Iraqi Hesitation: A political source familiar with the agreement to hold the funeral of Khamenei in Iraq on Wednesday was not an easy decision within the government, but was preceded by hesitant discussions, before tilting the scales under Iranian pressure, supported by positions of forces in the coordination framework & armed factions. The source, a deputy in one of the large Shiite parties, told Al-Mada, on condition of anonymity, that “Zaidi is aware that this file may put him in an embarrassing position in front of Trump during his upcoming visit to Washington.” According to information circulating in the political circles, the funeral program has witnessed a remarkable amendment, as Baghdad was excluded from the schedule of the ceremony, after it was scheduled to hold a ceremony in the city of Al-Kadhimiya, to limit the visit to Najaf & Karbala, with the possibility of receiving the body of the guide at Najaf airport. It is estimated that a large funeral ceremony in the capital may have turned into anti-American demonstrations, punctuated by chants & slogans targeting the US president, similar to the scenes that accompanied the funeral ceremony inside Iran. US President Donald Trump has shown a clear interest in the funeral ceremony that began over the weekend in Iran. Trump said in a press statement, commenting on the scenes that showed thousands of participants crying during the ceremony, that he was surprised by the size of the popular interaction, before adding: "Maybe those are fake tears." Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi arrived in Baghdad, in his first visit since the end of the last war in the region, in conjunction with the launch of what has become known as the "Dawn Campaign", which targeted deputies & officials accused of corruption last week. According to the leak after the visit, Araqchi discussed with Iraqi officials the details of the funeral ceremony, while preliminary information indicated that Baghdad will be one of the main stations of the event. But the Iraqi committee to organize the visit later quickly denied that information, before the features of the new program, which was limited to Najaf & Karbala, were later clarified. Religious Rituals - No Political Calculations: On the other hand, former diplomat Ghazi Faisal provides a different reading of the file, as he believes that Washington, including President Trump, realizes that the funeral of the former Iranian leader does not fall within the official work of the Iraqi government, but falls within the framework of religious & sectarian rituals. Faisal told Al-Mada that "Zaidi is concerned with running the government, while Khamenei's funeral is part of the religious traditions," adding that Baghdad's approval of the funeral ceremony in Najaf and Karbala "does not exceed being a response to religious traditions followed with religious or official figures or even ordinary citizens." Faisal pointed out that Trump himself announced that Iran was given a week to complete the funeral ceremony, out of respect for this occasion, without exerting pressure related to negotiations between the two parties. He believes that what happened represents a "temporary truce" to allow for the end of the ceremony, before the resumption of the negotiating track between Washington & Tehran. The former diplomat concludes that the US, as a multi-religious & multicultural country, usually respectfully views religious & sectarian diversity & associated rituals, making it unlikely that the funeral ceremony, in itself, will turn into a crisis in official relations between Baghdad & Washington, unless it is accompanied by messages or political positions beyond its religious dimension. How Is Zaidi Being Seen In Washington Now? On the image of Zaidi in the US, the researcher on the American issue, Kato Saadullah, believes that Washington still gives Zaidi an important political opportunity, but at the same time links the continuation of this support to the extent of its ability to implement real reforms. Saadullah told Al-Mada that the PM's visit comes at the invitation of US President Donald Trump & coincides with the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the US, adding that Trump will be before that at the NATO conference in Ankara, to meet Zaidi after his return to Washington. He points out that Trump has already announced his support for Zaidi & the current government, a position that has given Baghdad an important political margin, but this support, according to Saad Allah, will not be open or unconditional. He adds that the US president, through his envoy Tom Barrack, informed the Iraqi government of a set of priorities that should be worked on if Baghdad wants to preserve the American cover. Three American Priorities: Saadullah puts these priorities in three main files. First, to end the phenomenon of weapons outside the framework of the state & to dissolve militias & armed factions, thus restoring the state’s monopoly on force. The 2nd file is, to fight corruption, which, according to the researcher, is the issue that Trump focuses on more than any other file, based on the conviction that corruption represents the gateway from which the rest of the Iraqi crises branch out. The third file is, the cessation of the smuggling of hard currency & the closure of channels that drain the Iraqi financial reserves & feed financial networks linked abroad. Is The Dawn Campaign enough? Saadullah believes that the recent campaign launched by Zaidi against a number of those accused of corruption is an important step, but it still needs more evidence. Will this campaign be enough paper that Zaidi carries to Washington to convince the US administration, Congress& Am erican institutions that he has already started the battle against corruption, or will it be read as late measures that do not live up to the challenges? He believes that the answer to this question will largely determine the nature of the US position on the Iraqi government during the next phase. Congress Calls Zaidi’s Actions A “Smug” Despite the initial U.S. welcome of recent moves, Saadullah points to the presence of powerful voices in Congress that continue to view with skepticism what is going on in Baghdad. He cites the position of Congressman Joe Wilson, who criticized the Zaidi campaign, calling it a “joke” & considering it not a real confrontation with the system of corruption. Saadullah recalls that Wilson went further when he published the names of prominent political figures, saying that any serious campaign should start from "big whales" & mentioned in his tweet Nouri al-Maliki, Hadi al-Amiri & Qais al-Khazali. Washington Exam: Saadullah believes that the task awaiting Zaidi in Washington will not be easy. If he only presents the measures taken over the past week, he will likely not get a full American conviction. If he succeeds in convincing the US administration that he will return to Baghdad to complete a broad campaign targeting senior corruption suspects, in parallel with practical steps to limit arms to the state, the chances of continued US support will increase significantly. He added that the visit comes at a very sensitive economic time, as Iraq is facing a financial crisis as a result of the suspension of oil exports during the recent war with Iran, which made Baghdad more in need of loans & int'l financial support. He stressed that obtaining funding from the WB or major financial institutions would be more difficult without US political cover, which gives the visit more importance than its diplomatic dimension. Saadullah argues that the nature of US support will become clearer after the visit, questioning whether Trump will deal with Zaidi in the same way he treated Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa by linking support to a series of conditions & procedures. He adds that if US support is already conditional, Baghdad will be required to show more decisive steps in the files of anti-corruption & disarmament, because these two files will remain the basic criterion for judging the performance of the government. Observers view the visit as the culmination of the understandings reached by Zaidi with US envoy Tom Barrack during his visit to Baghdad last month, which became politically known as the "June settlement", which includes besieging Iranian influence & creating a wider environment for US investment inside Iraq. The Battle Of Corruption. Figures Follow Zaidi To Washington: On the other hand, the former diplomat & head of the Iraqi Center for Strategic Studies, Ghazi Faisal, believes that the real battle facing the government of Ali al-Zaidi is the fight against corruption, stressing that the government has begun to pursue money laundering, smuggling and corruption networks, especially in the oil & electricity sectors, in addition to tracking financial networks in neighboring countries & Europe, including more than 264 defendants & their money. Faisal pointed out that the WB has already talked about smuggling more than $ 300 billion out of Iraq, considering that dismantling these networks & recovering funds may take seven years or more, because of their association with banks & external companies & the merger of part of the money in the economies of other countries. Faisal calls for a comprehensive audit of state institutions through int'l audit companies. Faisal concludes that Washington is aware of the complexities of confronting corruption in Iraq, but it will look at any real progress in this file as the most important card that Zaidi can carry to the WH because the success of the government will be measured by its actual results in combating corruption & recovering money, not just by launching campaigns.

Thanks Umb. Go RV.

Here's some articles of Dinarian interests... Direct From The SANDBOX Report. The main stories are: -GOI: No Change In The Dinar ER Against The Dollar. -GOI Prepares The Draft 2027 Budget Law In Preparation For Submitting It To The Cabinet. Treat as rumors. Not verified. Your opine. FROM IRAQI SOURCES: Government Advisor: No Change In The Dinar ER Against The Dollar. ARTICLE: The financial advisor to the Iraqi PM, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, denied the existence of any plan or program by the Iraqi government to change the ER of the Dinar against the USD, stressing that this matter has not been discussed in any way. Salih said yesterday, Wednesday, in a press statement, that "the issue of the currency's value has not been discussed in any way," in response to rumors circulating about the possibility of changing the official ER of the Dinar against the USD. The Iraqi PM's advisor, Ali al-Zidi, pointed out that "recently, several official statements & declarations have been issued denying all claims about any discussion or intention to change the current ER of the Dinar." These statements come at a time when rumors about changing the official ER of the Dinar against the Dollar resurface periodically in the markets of Iraq & the Kurdistan Region. The ER of 100 US Dollars was fixed at 130,000 Iraqi Dinars in Iraq's 3-year Budget Law for the years 2023, 2024 & 2025. Iraq Resumes Cash Dollar Shipments - But Experts Downplay Their Impact On The Market! ARTICLE: The PM's financial advisor, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, confirmed on Tuesday that Iraq has resumed receiving shipments of USD in cash, with each shipment amounting to approximately $500 million. He explained that the regularity of these shipments strengthens the stability of the parallel market, affirms Baghdad's commitment to int'l compliance standards, & contributes to narrowing the gap with the official ER, following a period of anxiety that accompanied regional developments. However, some experts believe that these shipments do not significantly impact the ER & that their previous suspension was more related to air transport issues than to any financial or political disputes. Salih told Al-Mada newspaper, "These cash Dollar shipments do not represent new funds, but rather are drawn from the CBI's reserves deposited with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York & are allocated to cover travelers' needs." He added, "The percentage of cash Dollars does not exceed about 10% of total foreign transfers & each shipment amounts to approximately $500 million, which is sufficient to meet normal demand." He explained that “the regularity of these shipments is linked to Iraq’s full commitment to int'l compliance standards,” noting that “the CBI is among the most cooperative institutions with the US Federal Reserve & the UST Department in matters related to combating money laundering & terrorist financing.” He denied the validity of rumors about violations or exceptional restrictions imposed on Iraq. Saleh revealed that “transporting cash Dollars to Iraq is one of the most complex logistical operations, as it is carried out via private aircraft & under strict security & safety measures.” He explained that “these operations are executed according to precise arrangements that ensure the safety of the shipments until they reach the CBI.” He pointed out that “the continued arrival of cash Dollar shipments sends a positive signal to the parallel market & dispels rumors that disrupt the ER.” He considered that “increasing the level of certainty among traders gradually leads to a narrowing of the gap between the official rate of 1,320 Dinars per Dollar & the parallel market rate, because the sustainability of compliance & the regularity of shipments are among the most important factors for the stability of the exchange market in Iraq.” Saleh explained that “the Dollar, despite being part of Iraq’s reserves, remains subject to US monetary policy & laws as it is the currency of another country.” He clarified that “the US stipulates that its currency not be used in a manner that contradicts its foreign policy or national security, which requires countries dealing in Dollars to adhere to int'l compliance standards.” He added that “the decline in demand for cash Dollars during the past period coincided with the security conditions in the region, as questions were raised in the US about the continued need for shipments given the decline in travel, before supply operations returned to normal as Iraq continued to comply with int'l regulations.” Saleh pointed out that “the purchase of cash Dollars by travelers is currently subject to a comprehensive monitoring system through the FTR platform, which tracks int'l financial transfers & transactions. The data of each beneficiary is recorded accurately, including personal information & fingerprints, to prevent duplicate purchases or misuse of cash Dollars.” He explained that “each traveler receives $3,000 per month for each trip through Iraqi airports.” He added that “electronic financial transfers are already subject to strict international oversight through global banking systems, but cash Dollars require additional procedures due to the sensitivity of their circulation.” He explained that this “led to the adoption of advanced tracking systems that give Iraq a positive image before int'l institutions concerned with combating money laundering & the financing of terrorism.” Saleh believes that “the development of economic relations between Baghdad & Washington, especially the PM's upcoming visit to the US, will positively impact the level of trust between the two sides & contribute to the stability of financial transactions.” He considers that “an improved financial climate directly impacts the stability of the local market.” In a related context, specialists believe that linking these shipments to ER fluctuations, or interpreting their suspension as a crisis with the US, is not based on realistic data, but rather is related to air transport conditions & the security developments witnessed in the region. Economic expert Duraid al-Anzi told Al-Mada that "the cash Dollars shipped from the US have no bearing on the Iraqi market, neither influencing the Dollar's price nor its daily transactions. They do not enter the local market directly or indirectly because the incoming funds remain within the state's financial cycle & do not act as a tool to influence supply & demand within the markets." He pointed out that "the claims made recently about a problem between Baghdad & Washington due to the halt in shipments were not supported by any official indicators," expressing surprise at "the talk of a crisis without any statement or position from either the US or Iraq confirming its existence." He considered the "suspension of civilian air traffic in the region during the war to be the natural reason behind the delay in the arrival of the shipments." Al-Anzi added that "the resumption of dollar shipments coincided with the end of military operations & the resumption of air traffic," asking, "Were there any new meetings, understandings, secret communications, or political pressures? We haven't heard of anything of the sort." He concluded that "interpreting the resumption of shipments as a result of a political breakthrough with the US is an inaccurate reading of reality." He explained that “the funds arriving in Iraq are part of its oil revenues & reserves deposited with the US Federal Reserve & are transferred according to financial mechanisms that have been in place for years.” He clarified that “the shipping process is subject to continuous auditing & monitoring procedures and does not represent a new or exceptional financial resource.” Al-Anzi believes that “the recent increases in the Dollar ER are due to increased demand from entities seeking to smuggle funds, which has created an artificial supply & demand crisis within the parallel market.” He emphasized that “this crisis is fabricated & is not related to the suspension of cash Dollar shipments,” noting that “regional tensions, including talk of closing the Strait of Hormuz, were not sufficient on their own to cause these jumps in the ER.” He pointed out that “discussions about the value of the shipments should be understood within the context of government needs & that the funds are transported by private planes in periodic installments as requested, with the cost of transportation being one million Dollars, while transportation & insurance operations are subject to precise financial & logistical procedures.” He affirmed that “there is no fundamental change in the mechanism for supplying Iraq with Dollars.” He added that “the incoming funds are deposited into the accounts of the CBI & the government & are included in the General Budget,” while simultaneously warning that “a portion of these funds was previously subject to smuggling or misuse, which prompted the financial authorities to tighten control & tracking procedures.” He considered that “confronting this phenomenon represents the real challenge, not the regularity of Dollar shipments themselves.” Al-Anzi explained that “the stability of the Iraqi market will not be achieved simply by the arrival of Dollar shipments, but rather requires addressing the internal imbalances that fuel the parallel market, tightening control over the movement of funds & combating corruption & smuggling networks.” He emphasized that “cash Dollars are more closely linked to the Budget & its allocations than to the activity of the local market & that what happened during the past period was essentially a result of the suspension of civil aviation, not a result of political or financial disputes with the US.” Minister Of Finance: We Are Continuing To Prepare The Draft 2027 Budget Law In Preparation For Submitting It To The Cabinet. ARTICLE: Finance Minister Faleh al-Sari confirmed on Tuesday that the ministry is continuing to prepare the draft Federal Budget Law for 2027, in preparation for submitting it to the Council of Ministers & then referring it to the Council of Representatives in the coming period. A ministry statement indicated that "the Parliamentary Finance Committee, chaired by MP Uday Awad and attended by its members & a number of members of other parliamentary committees, hosted Finance Minister Faleh al-Sari & senior ministry officials today to discuss the financial & economic situation & the mechanisms for preparing the Draft Federal Budget for 2027." The statement added that "at the beginning of the meeting, the committee chairman welcomed the Finance Minister & senior officials, emphasizing the importance of strengthening cooperation & coordination between the legislative & executive branches to ensure the integration of roles in legislation & oversight & to contribute to improving institutional performance." The head of the Finance Committee affirmed, according to the statement, that "the committee is committed to supporting & enacting laws that contribute to addressing financial challenges, developing non-oil resources & enhancing the state's financial sustainability. " The statement continued, "During a meeting held at its headquarters, the Finance Committee listened to a detailed explanation of the country's financial & economic situation, with an emphasis on implementing appropriate solutions through legislation that ensures economic stability." The Minister of Finance praised the Finance Committee's role in preparing the General Budgets & exercising its oversight function, as well as its contribution to enacting laws related to financial & economic affairs. He explained that "the ministry has set a number of priorities, foremost among them the automation of the ministry's operations, the establishment of a specialized body & the adoption of a gradual transition from line-item budgeting to program-based budgeting." Al-Sari indicated that "the 2027 budget proposal includes a phased plan for implementing program & performance-based budgeting, starting with a number of governorates as a pilot program, to be gradually expanded to include all of Iraq's governorates." He reviewed the ministry's plan to repay public debt by reorganizing dealings with banks affiliated with the ministry, which will contribute to reducing the debt burden, enhancing financial stability & supporting. The statement continued, "The meeting discussed mechanisms for maximizing public revenues & activating the ASYCUDA system, which contributes to raising the efficiency of customs administration & increasing state resources. It also explored the possibility of amending several related laws & working to establish a development fund & an energy fund to boost revenues & support the public treasury." The meeting concluded with extensive discussions among committee members regarding financial & economic matters, emphasizing the importance of adopting solutions & procedures that achieve the public interest & enhance financial & economic stability in the country, in addition to finding appropriate solutions for the issue of contracts & daily wages.

Thanks SB. Missing from this whole equation is Maliki. He's either in hiding or fled to safety of Iran. Maliki may be held responsible for stollen USD in the $Trillions over the past 20 years. The reported missing $2 trillion USD is only the tip of the iceberg. Lest we forget the CBI auctioned USD going to Makiki & Iran. Find Maliki & hang him. He's was Iran installed agent from the very get go. IMHO.

US-Iran updates: WHAT TO KNOW -War is back on in Iran on Wednesday after Tehran launched attacks on trade vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. -The US responded to the attacks with a wave of strikes on nearly 100 targets within Iran. -President Donald Trump has declared the ceasefire with Iran "over" as of Wednesday. -NATO Chief Mark Rutte says the violent US response was "absolutely necessary." -The US has also revoked Iran oil sanctions waivers that were granted amid peace talks.

HUGE: Here's an article/with video of GCR intersts...The days of gold & silver price suppression & fixing by the West are over...China takes control of new gold & silver pricing...this will have a huge impact on how asset backed currencies will be valued... Taylor Kenny: Hong Kong (BRICS) Just Launched a Gold System That Could REPRICE Gold & Silver. ARTICLE: Hong Kong just launched a new gold clearing & settlement system — & it could change the way gold & silver are priced around the world. TIMELINES: -00:00 Hong Kong Launches a Gold System That Could Restructure/Reprice Gold. -00:59 The West’s Paper Gold Pricing Monopoly. -01:27 How Rehypothecation Suppresses Gold & Silver Prices. -02:56 Banks, Spoofing, & Overnight Price Raids. -04:22 Currency Resets, Inflation & the Dollar’s Decline. Currencyexchange rates -05:19 Central Banks Know What’s Coming. -06:43 Gold Infrastructure & the Return to Real Money. -07:41 BRICS, Gold Corridors & Oil Settlement. Google key words in above article to bring up VIDEO at source OR 'Gold's Big Move Starts Now'

Iran is counting on the Democrats/RINOs to cripple Trump & hand them a victory. Then the US will surrender to Iran if Democrats/RINOs get their ways. Then Iran goes nuclear & it's all due to TDS. IMHO.

Iraq accomplished a lot this week. It appears Zaidi wants his house in order before he meets Trump. There's going to be huge deals made on both sides. Go RV.

Here's some articles of Dinarian interests... Huge progress in Iraq...Iraq anti corruption campaign is still ongoing... Treat as rumors. Not verified. Your opine. Iraq Is Moving Towards Balancing Programs With US Support & In Coordination With The WB. ARTICLE: Finance Minister Faleh Sari discussed on Wednesday with the US Chargé d'Affaires to Iraq, Joshua Harris, prospects for economic cooperation between Baghdad & Washington & ways to strengthen the partnership with US financial institutions, while both sides affirmed their support for the path of economic & financial reforms. The Ministry of Finance said in a statement received by "Al-Eqtisad News" that the minister stressed that the government has given the economic file high priority within its program, noting that the next stage will witness reforms aimed at addressing economic and financial challenges in a radical way, and in cooperation with int'l partners. The minister revealed a government trend towards preparing a program budget & gradually moving away from the traditional Budget system, with the aim of raising the efficiency of spending and linking financial allocations to goals and results, in line with the requirements of financial & administrative reform. For his part, the US Chargé d'Affaires affirmed his country's support for the Iraqi government and its readiness to enhance economic & financial cooperation, in a way that contributes to supporting stability & achieving sustainable economic growth in Iraq. This trend coincides with what the government spokesman, Haider al-Aboudi, announced, that the Council of Ministers approved a directive to proceed with drafting a "program budget" in coordination with the World Bank & the Parliamentary Finance Committee, within the framework of economic reform. Saleh: The Funds Recovered From Corrupt Individuals Cannot Be Used To Base Budgets. ARTICLE: The PM’s financial advisor, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, confirmed on Tuesday (July 7, 2026) that the funds recovered from corrupt individuals represent exceptional revenues that cannot be relied upon in preparing public Budgets, while noting that these funds will contribute to reducing the deficit gap & financing projects. Saleh said in a statement followed by “Baghdad Today”, that “the funds that were recovered from the corrupt are important & non-recurring exceptional revenues, as they cannot necessarily and permanently be relied upon in preparing the General Budgets, but they constitute an important source of revenue in financial planning.” He continued: “These funds are often directed towards bridging the deficit gap or financing specific projects that directly affect the lives of individuals, or strengthening the country’s financial reserves & not towards building the annual Budget within a long-term fiscal policy, because that is linked to the ceilings and capabilities of fiscal policy within the framework of preparing & implementing public Budgets.” He stressed that “recovering corruption funds is important because it reduces financial waste, supports the public treasury & enhances the confidence of citizens, investors & the int'l financial community in the country’s economic system,” noting that “funds recovered from corrupt individuals represent an important support tool for the nat'l economy, but they are not necessarily a complete replacement for the General Budget, as this depends on the size & ceilings of public spending.” These moves come in parallel with the government’s efforts to reduce the fiscal deficit & diversify revenue sources away from near-total dependence on oil. US Resumes Dollar Transfers To Iraq After Months Long Suspension. ARTICLE: The Trump administration had halted the shipments to Iraq as part of its efforts to pressure the Baghdad government to distance itself from Iran. Al-Zaidi's Government Moves Towards Opening Files On Ministers, Governors & Directors-General, While Tracking Their Money & Properties. ARTICLE: Middle East Monitor reported that the Iraqi government is preparing to launch the second phase of its anti-corruption campaign, in a move that expands the scope of prosecutions to include ministers, governors, directors-general & current & former officials, while simultaneously tracking funds, real estate & investments linked to those suspected of involvement inside & outside of Iraq. The website indicated that the new phase includes opening files in the Ministries of Health, Oil & Electricity, in addition to completing the procedures for the “Where did you get this?” Bill to strengthen the prosecution of illicit enrichment; the step comes within the government’s efforts to expand accountability, recover public funds & prosecute those involved without exception. Iraq’s CF Backs Anti-Corruption Drive. ARTICLE: Iraq’s Shiite Coordination Framework (CF), the largest bloc in Parliament, reaffirmed on Monday its support for government & judicial measures to combat corruption, protect public funds, and strengthen the rule of law, according to a statement. During a meeting at the office of Badr Organization Secretary-General Hadi Al-Amiri, attended by Supreme Judicial Council President Faiq Zaidan & PM Ali Al-Zaidi, the CF also reviewed official and public preparations for the funeral of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, calling for broad participation in the ceremony. As Parliament resumed sessions following its legislative recess, the bloc called for activating oversight mechanisms & accelerating the approval of key legislation. On June 28, Iraqi authorities launched Dawn Crackdown (Sawlat Al-Fajr), a nationwide anti-corruption campaign under Al-Zaidi’s direction targeting current & former officials, lawmakers, politicians, business figures, ministers, directors-general, provincial governors & other suspects. On Sunday, Tasmeem Alliance head Amer Al-Fayez revealed to Shafaq News that anti-corruption efforts would be on the agenda of the CF’s regular meeting. In The Presence Of The Head Of The Supreme Judicial Council, Faiq Zaidan, The Coordination Framework Affirms Its Support For The Anti-Corruption Campaign & Calls On Parliament To Strengthen Its Oversight Role. ARTICLE: The Coordination Framework held its periodic meeting today at the office of the Secretary-General of the Badr Organization, Hadi al-Amiri, in the presence of PM Ali al-Zaidi and the President of the Supreme Judicial Council, Judge Faiq Zaidan, to discuss the latest political, security & judicial developments in the country. According to an official statement, the attendees discussed developments on the nat'l scene, focusing on the sustainability of the anti-corruption campaign and the mechanisms to ensure the continuation of governmental & judicial procedures aimed at pursuing corruption cases & protecting public funds. The Coordination Framework, according to the statement, affirmed its full support for the measures taken by the government & the judiciary in combating what it described as the “corruption pandemic,” stressing the importance of continuing efforts to stop the waste of public funds & strengthen the rule of law. The participants called on the House of Representatives to activate its oversight tools in line with the ongoing governmental & judicial steps, in addition to intensifying work on passing laws that represent a priority during the current stage, in order to support the reform process & enhance the performance of state institutions. The meeting also addressed a number of political and organizational issues & the coordinating framework renewed its call for broad public participation in the funeral procession of the martyr Sayyid Ali Khamenei. The meeting comes at a time when the Iraqi scene is witnessing an escalation in the pace of the anti-corruption campaign, coinciding with political & judicial efforts aimed at strengthening coordination between state institutions & supporting measures aimed at pursuing corruption cases & recovering public funds. European Union: We Will Continue To Support Iraq In Reforming Its Banking System. ARTICLE: The European Union Ambassador to Iraq, Clemens Simetner, confirmed on Sunday (July 5, 2026) that the Union will continue to provide support to the Iraqi government through numerous programs that include combating corruption & reforming the banking system. Simetner told the official agency, as reported by Baghdad Today, that “we saw the current government program & put alongside it what the European Union has worked on and is still working on in terms of activities, & we found a great similarity there,” explaining that “we presented projects for vocational training, reforming the banking system, providing job opportunities for small & medium enterprises, as well as efforts to combat corruption, diversify energy sources & diversify oil products.” He added, "These programs are being implemented & are still in place & we are continuing to support the government through them & will continue to provide them in the future."

Here's another article related to the above...at the end of our rope... At The Beaking Point. ARTICLE: US-Iran Ceasefire Tested as Drone Attacks Hit Ships in the Strait. Renewed attacks on commercial vessels have heightened tensions in the Gulf, threatening fragile peace efforts & raising new concerns over global energy security & maritime trade. Overview: Commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz were struck in separate attacks, prompting accusations against Iran & sharply escalating regional tensions. The incidents place the fragile US-Iran ceasefire at risk, just weeks after both sides agreed to pursue diplomatic negotiations. Oil prices jumped immediately as traders reacted to renewed threats against one of the world's most critical energy corridors. Key Developments: 1. Commercial Ships Targeted in the Strait of Hormuz. Reports indicate that multiple commercial vessels were attacked while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, including a Qatari LNG tanker that suffered significant damage after an apparent drone strike. A Saudi-flagged crude tanker was also damaged, though no fatalities were reported. 2. U.S. Responds with Military Action. Following the attacks, U.S. Central Command announced retaliatory strikes against Iranian military targets, describing the vessel attacks as violations of the existing ceasefire agreement. The US also revoked a conditional license that had permitted limited Iranian oil exports. 3. Oil Markets React Immediately. Brent crude & US crude prices rose sharply as investors priced in renewed supply risks. Because nearly one-fifth of global oil shipments normally pass through the Strait of Hormuz, even limited disruptions can significantly affect global energy markets. 4. Shipping Security Deteriorates. Maritime security agencies raised the threat level for vessels operating in the region. Shipping companies are expected to face higher insurance costs, increased security measures & potential route adjustments while tensions remain elevated. 5. Peace Talks Face New Uncertainty. The attacks have complicated ongoing diplomatic efforts between Washington & Tehran. Officials now face the challenge of preventing the latest violence from completely derailing negotiations aimed at restoring long-term stability in the Gulf. Why It Matters: The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most strategically important shipping lanes. Any disruption threatens global oil supplies, raises transportation costs, increases inflationary pressures & injects new uncertainty into int'l financial markets. Renewed military escalation also risks delaying broader diplomatic efforts to stabilize the Middle East. Why It Matters To Foreign Currency Holders: Currency investors continue monitoring geopolitical developments because energy prices directly influence inflation, interest-rate policy & global capital flows. Prolonged instability in the Gulf could strengthen demand for safe-haven assets while increasing volatility across foreign exchange & commodity markets. Implications For The Global Reset: Pillar 1 – Energy. Renewed attacks on commercial shipping demonstrate how energy security remains central to global financial stability, with oil prices responding rapidly to disruptions in critical transportation corridors. Pillar 2 – Trade. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes. Higher shipping risks, insurance costs, and supply chain disruptions could increase global trade expenses & prolong inflationary pressures. Closing Thought: This is not just about military escalation—it highlights how geopolitical conflict can rapidly influence global energy markets, int'l trade, inflation & the stability of the world's financial system.

Here's another article related to the above...succer punched... Your Scum. ARTICLE: Trump calls Iranian regime 'scum'& 'evil' after multiple air strikes on US Bases. President Donald Trump condemned the Iranian regime as "scum" & "evil" after the US carried out offensive strikes against the country on Wednesday. Trump lost patience with Tehran after the regime launched attacks against trade vessels in the Strait of Hormuz this week. He says he has no interest in continuing peace talks with the regime, saying it is likely a "waste of time." Luigi's two cents worth... I been saying for months...you can't negotiate with terrorists. Iran has never honored any deal, never will. Iran has become even more boulder in recent days after the arrival of sofisticated Chinese weaponry. China denies arming Iran & calls it a fabrication of lies. US Bases in the Region have been lucky so far with minimal death toll & damage reports. On day, Iran is going to get lucky & be successful in an all out assault on US forces. We can't afford to sit around like sitting ducks & allow this to happen. A ground invasion of Iran May be the only option. Send in the Marines & finish the job once & for all. That means killing off the entire fanatical Mullah regime & installing another government. It's time to free the oppressed People of Iran. This is the only pathway to true peace in the region. IMHO.

Here's another article related to the above...UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain & even Saudi Arabia Condemns the Iran attacks on regional nations...stop condemning & get into the fight & do something about it... Kuwait Shoots Down Over A Dozen Iranian Missiles & UAVs, Condemns 'Heinous' Aggression. ARTICLE: Kuwaiti air defenses intercepted more than a dozen Iranian missiles and UAVs targeting Kuwaiti territory, the country announced on Wednesday. The Kuwaiti army says it successfully intercepted two missiles and 13 UAVs that breached Kuwaiti airspace. Authorities said the strikes caused "no material damage or human injuries." The monthslong conflict with Iran has seen Kuwait shoot down 15 cruise missiles, 383 ballistic missiles & 906 UAVs, the armed forces say. Kuwait has condemned the regime in Tehran for "heinous Iranian aggression."