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Based on our belief that enhancing the capabilities of our human resources is the most important factor in raising the quality of performance, and in implementation of the training program plan for this center, we announce the training courses detailed in the tables attached below for August 2026. All licensed banks and all licensed non-bank financial institutions are kindly requested to submit their nominations . For more information, click here .
The Center for Banking Studies was established by the Central Bank of Iraq pursuant to Law No. (36) of 1999 to become its official training arm for implementing best international practices and refining the technical and administrative skills of employees in the financial and banking sector. Its vision is to become the leading knowledge base for financial services in Iraq through excellence in skills development, providing integrated knowledge services to the financial sector, contributing to spreading financial and banking awareness in society, and aspiring to be a pillar supporting the banking and financial sector in the field of consulting, training, and human resource development according to the most effective methods and the latest means, contributing to developing a culture of training and innovation in the banking industry and achieving leadership locally and regionally.
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Building a Bright Future for Iraq’s Financial Sector
Target Entities: - Central Bank of Iraq – All licensed banks (state-owned and private). - Non-bank financial institutions (all exchange companies, electronic payment companies, and finance companies). - Iraqi Deposit Insurance Company.
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Traditional Banking Operations in Electronic Payments
Target Audience: IT department managers and staff. Information security and cybersecurity managers and staff. Personnel working in electronic payment systems, transfers, and credit facilities. Risk management personnel.
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Program Outcomes: Participants will be able to understand the mechanisms for executing banking operations associated with electronic payment systems and apply operational procedures and control measures in accordance with approved regulations and instructions. They will also be able to efficiently manage payment operations, handle operational risks, and enhance the quality of service provided to customers.
Program Details: * **Organizer:** Banking Studies Center (www.cbi.iq) * **Dates:** August 2–4, 2026 * **Duration:** 3 days / 12 training hours * **Time:** 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
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Target Audience: Credit risk management through the application of credit assessment and rating methodologies in accordance with Basel III. Central Bank of Iraq staff. Banking sector professionals in the following departments: Finance, Risk, Supervision and Audit, and Credit.
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Program Outcomes: Program Duration | Training Hours | Timing | Training Venue | Trainer Banking Studies Center (www.cbi.iq) November 8–11, 2026 | 3 Days / 12 Hours | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Participants will gain an understanding of the Basel III Committee regulations—specifically regarding credit risk management and the use of credit assessment and rating methodologies—while also reviewing best practices in this field.
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Analysis of Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) Scorecard Data Target Audience All employees of licensed banks whose work relates to the subject of the aforementioned program.
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Program Outcomes: Program Details: Duration, Training Hours, Timing, Training Venue, Trainer Banking Studies Center (www.cbi.iq) 8, 16, & 18 [Month/Year] | 3 Days / 12 Hours | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Understanding the extent of banks' adherence to practices related to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards; mechanisms for measuring compliance levels; and the use of scorecards for assessment, thereby contributing to improved supervisory quality.
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Management of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Risks Central Bank of Iraq staff. Staff of banks and non-bank financial institutions working in the following departments: (Reporting, Compliance, Risk, Internal Audit).
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Program Outcomes: Program Details: - Dates: August 16–19, 2026 - Duration: 4 days / 16 training hours - Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM - Location: Banking Studies Center (www.cbi.iq)
Participants will be able to: - Identify the risks associated with money laundering and terrorist financing. - Understand the methods and indicators of these activities within the financial sector. - Apply preventive controls and procedures in accordance with international standards and regulatory requirements. - Enhance their ability to detect and report suspicious transactions, thereby contributing to improved compliance and risk management within the financial institution.
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Target Audience: Certified Human Resources Manager (CHRM) Certification Central Bank of Iraq employees Employees of banking and non-banking financial institutions who manage human resources departments or specialize in workforce planning and management within their organizations
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Program Outcomes: Program Duration | Training Hours | Timing | Training Venue | Trainer www.cbi.iq Participants will be able to analyze the organizational model for human resource management and its role within the corporate structure, while enhancing the competencies required for a Human Resources Manager in line with best practices. Apply human resource management strategies to support corporate strategic planning. Understand performance assessment and management mechanisms to achieve organizational effectiveness.
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True investment begins in minds, and activating their role earns us a hopeful future.
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About the news If you'd like to see the August 2026 CBi Training Schedule it is here
Payment of $500 million
Allocating funds for travelers and remittances
To boost liquidity
The video for this My FX Buddies Blogpost is below:
A source reported in press statements that a new batch of cash dollars had arrived in Iraq, sent by the US Federal Reserve to the Central Bank of Iraq.
Within the framework of periodic agreements between the Central Bank of Iraq and the US Federal Reserve
Controlling the demand for foreign currency
The source told the official agency that "the US Federal Reserve sent a new batch of cash dollars to the Central Bank of Iraq worth $500 million."
He added that "the amount sent will be invested in transactions related to travelers and foreign remittances, with the approval of the Central Bank of Iraq."
This payment comes as part of the periodic agreements between the Central Bank of Iraq and the US Federal Reserve to supply the local market with dollar liquidity and to cover the needs of travelers and foreign remittances, at a time when Baghdad is seeking to stabilize the exchange rate.
A decline in cash credit and deposits in Iraqi banks during the first half of 2026
Official data showed a decline in total deposits and cash credit in Iraq up to the end of May 2026, while the private sector continued to take the largest share of bank financing.
According to data seen by Shafaq News Agency, total deposits at banks reached 104.296 trillion dinars by the end of May 2026, compared to 104.727 trillion dinars in April and 105.090 trillion dinars in March, reflecting a continued decline for the third consecutive month.
The deposits were distributed between 31.791 trillion dinars for the central government, 22.890 trillion dinars for public institutions, while private sector deposits amounted to 49.615 trillion dinars, constituting about 47.6% of total deposits.
In contrast, total cash credit recorded 73.173 trillion dinars by the end of May, compared to 73.637 trillion dinars in April, and 73.832 trillion dinars in March.
Credit granted to the central government amounted to 23.420 trillion dinars, while credit provided to public institutions reached 2.424 trillion dinars, while the private sector accounted for 47.329 trillion dinars, or approximately 65% of total monetary credit.
An increase in deposits is an indicator of growing confidence in the banking sector among individuals and businesses, as deposits provide banks with the necessary liquidity to finance economic activities. Credit, on the other hand, represents loans and facilities granted by banks to the government and the public and private sectors. Its growth, particularly that directed to the private sector, is a significant indicator of support for investment and production, and of stimulating economic activity. Conversely, a continued decline in deposits and credit may reflect a slowdown in economic activity and a reduced capacity of banks to finance projects.
Iraq salary delays spark market slowdown, family hardship
A crisis over delayed salary payments to Iraqi state employees has now stretched into its fifth week, leaving a wide segment of public-sector workers still waiting for their pay amid mounting living expenses and growing economic strain that has begun visibly rippling through Iraqi markets.
Government-acknowledged liquidity shortages have turned the salary delay from an internal Finance Ministry matter into a daily problem affecting buying and selling activity and families' ability to meet basic needs, with concerns mounting that markets could slide into a prolonged slowdown if pressure on government spending continues.
Falling oil revenues and disrupted exports have placed growing pressure on Iraq's budget, even as operating expenses continue to climb. Monthly salary obligations total roughly 7.8 trillion Iraqi dinars (approximately $5.95 billion), and the government has so far been unable to secure the full amount required. The Finance Ministry has made available around 3.2 trillion dinars (approximately $2.44 billion) to cover part of these obligations, while government estimates point to a significant cash gap that has affected the timing of payments to several ministries and public agencies.
Iraqi markets are experiencing economic stagnation and sluggish trade activity due to delayed salary payments and rising import costs linked to shipping disruptions, according to Rasheed al-Saadi, spokesperson for the Baghdad Chamber of Commerce.
Daily market monitoring conducted by the chamber (covering food, construction materials, chemicals, gold and jewelry, and produce) shows a clear decline in commercial activity and a drop in citizens' purchasing power, al-Saadi told Shafaq News. Government salaries, he explained, serve as the primary driver of Iraq's market activity, with the state injecting roughly 7.8 trillion dinars (approximately $5.95 billion) monthly in wages; delays in disbursing these funds have directly affected buying and selling.
Distributing only about 3.2 trillion dinars (approximately $2.44 billion) so far is insufficient to move markets at a normal pace, particularly given that government spending forms the backbone of Iraq's economic cycle, al-Saadi added, pointing to the suspension or reassessment of some government projects due to rising costs as a contributing factor in the economic slowdown. “Shipping disruptions have pushed traders to alter import routes, raising transport costs and affecting commodity prices.”
Some merchants have been forced to sell goods at a loss to recover capital amid weak demand, al-Saadi noted, adding that the Baghdad Chamber of Commerce is engaging relevant authorities to ease customs procedures and border crossing operations, though the persistent slowdown continues to limit traders' ability to offset their losses.
At a market in Baghdad, grocery store owner Abu Mohammed described a noticeable drop in sales over recent weeks, as customers now focus on purchasing only essentials, with demand falling for many goods that previously moved more briskly.
Consumption patterns have shifted markedly, he explained: customers who once bought a week's or a month's worth of supplies now purchase smaller quantities or single items to preserve what liquidity they have left. Some shop owners have turned to offering credit to longtime customers, Abu Mohammed said, though this practice has become limited given traders' own financial obligations, adding that many business owners have cut orders from suppliers to avoid inventory buildup.
Continued crisis could push up prices for some goods, he warned, particularly as transport costs rise or supply quantities shrink, stressing that any broad financial crisis quickly affects both ordinary citizens and small traders.
For Umm Ghadeer, a mother of five from Karbala province, the delayed salary has made daily life increasingly difficult, since her family's salary represents its sole source of income for covering daily needs.
She has had to postpone paying several bills and obligations, relying on borrowing from relatives to secure food and medicine, she told Shafaq News. “What worries me most is the approaching school year; I have two daughters in university and three children in school, and I will need to cover books, stationery, bags, transportation, and tuition-related costs.”
Rising prices combined with delayed salaries have made life harder for families dependent on government income, she noted, adding that purchasing necessities now requires careful calculation, and that postponing many needs has become unavoidable. She called on the government to speed up resolution of the salary crisis, stressing that continued delays threaten not only living conditions but also family stability and children's education.
Finance Minister Faleh al-Sari presented proposals during a meeting with the parliamentary Finance Committee regarding a possible salary payment schedule should the financial crisis persist, according to MP Hussein Arab. The proposal would prioritize the most vulnerable groups, including social welfare beneficiaries, retirees, and lower-tier employees earning no more than 1 million dinars (approximately $763), Arab told Shafaq News.
Resolution of the crisis may hinge on a US-Iran agreement over reopening the Strait of Hormuz, Arab added, arguing that such a deal could help stabilize Iraqi oil exports and restore revenue to its normal trajectory. “The government may not need to implement salary scheduling at all,” he concluded, predicting that if a breakthrough on the strait materializes soon and oil export activity resumes.
80% of money is outside banks... Former MP calls for a new strategy to attract hoarded funds
Former MP Abbas Sarout confirmed on Thursday that 80% of Iraqi money is hoarded in homes, away from banks, noting the need to reconsider the strategy for attracting funds to the banking system.
Sarout explained to Al-Maalouma that "Iraq is suffering from a liquidity crisis that has begun to affect salary distribution, given that 80% of the money is hoarded outside banks. This requires serious attention to adopt a strategy that creates incentives to encourage citizens from all walks of life to deposit their money in banks and adopt electronic payment methods, a strategy used in most countries worldwide."
He added that "this mechanism ensures the government's ability to distribute salaries, grant loans and advances, and conduct financial transactions," pointing out that "the majority of financial transactions in Iraq still rely on traditional methods, and this has many drawbacks."
He stressed "the necessity of citizens having confidence to deposit their money in banks, as this will create balance, sustain the flow of funds, and foster greater flexibility, particularly in ensuring the financial capacity to meet obligations."
Al-Zaidi Retains Control of Defense and Interior Ministries; No Appointments Imminent as Strict Criteria Disqualify Candidates
Informed government sources have revealed that Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi, does not currently intend to finalize appointments for the Ministries of Defense and Interior. He prefers to maintain their administration on an acting basis, given his confidence in the performance of current leadership and his direct oversight of the two security institutions' operations.
According to the sources, Al-Zaidi has established rigorous professional and security criteria for selecting candidates for these ministries. They emphasized that names circulating in political circles are baseless and that the matter remains on hold as the government focuses on more pressing issues—foremost among them the financial crisis, the expansion of economic and investment partnerships, and managing the repercussions of regional developments.
The sources explained that while relevant political blocs have the right to nominate candidates in accordance with their constitutional entitlements, the final decision rests with the Commander-in-Chief. He will not approve any candidate who fails to align with the standards he has set for managing the two security institutions.
This stance follows the Parliament's vote of confidence in Al-Zaidi’s government months ago—a government formed only partially, with several portfolios, including Defense and Interior, remaining vacant due to persistent political disagreements over candidates. Since assuming the premiership, Al-Zaidi has initiated sweeping changes within military and security institutions, redrawing the high-level command structure. These moves coincided with an unprecedented campaign against financial and administrative corruption, resulting in the dismissal and arrest of officials, as well as the recovery of funds and assets worth billions of dinars.
As part of the security sector restructuring, he tasked Senior Undersecretary Hussein Al-Awadi with managing the Ministry of Interior in an acting capacity. He also brought former Interior Minister Lieutenant General Abdul Amir Al-Shammari back to the forefront by appointing him Director of the Office of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
Al-Zaidi capped these changes by dissolving the Joint Operations Command and merging it with the Office of the Commander-in-Chief and the National Operations Center into a unified security entity. Observers view this move as part of a broader initiative to consolidate command and control, accelerate the plan to restrict arms to state control, reorganize the security apparatus, and integrate the Popular Mobilization Forces into official defense institutions.
Al-Husseini summarizes the reasons for the financial crisis: American dominance and partisan control.
Former MP Yasser al-Husseini summarized the reasons for the financial crisis and the clear weakness in the salary distribution process, pointing to American control over oil revenues, on which Iraq relies primarily for its budget, in addition to the parties' control over non-oil revenues. Al-Husseini told Al-Maalouma, "The financial crisis has worsened over the past 23 years due to the general policies of successive governments, in addition to Iraq's policies with the American side. Iraqi funds remain under the control of the American president despite changes in administration, and this violates UN resolutions." He added, "The financial crisis is also linked to the majority of the political class seizing non-oil revenues and using them as a source of funding for their parties. These parties exploit the resources obtained from long-term strategic contracts, some of which extend for 50 years." He explained that "the liquidity shortage stems from Iraq's reliance on oil revenues, which are under American control, in addition to the parties' control over non-oil revenues."
Iraq adopts Apple as a trusted platform to promote electronic payments
The head of the executive body of the Media and Communications Commission, Baligh Abu Kalal, announced on Thursday that Apple has been approved as a verified digital platform to operate in Iraq, after completing all the requirements and procedures stipulated in the framework regulations for digital platforms and services.
Abu Kalal said in a statement received by Shafaq News Agency that the accreditation includes classifying Apple as a trusted digital service provider for its services represented by ( App Store , Apple Music , Apple Podcasts , Apple Arcade , and Apple Ads ), after it has met the technical and legal requirements approved by the Media and Communications Commission, which allows the provision of these services within an official regulatory framework that is consistent with the laws and regulations in force in the Republic of Iraq.
He pointed out that the adoption of global digital platforms falls within a strategy aimed at aligning the services of international companies with Iraqi legislation, ensuring the protection of users’ rights, supporting the digital economy, and developing the investment environment in the information technology sector.
He added that the commission continues to work with major international companies and platforms to complete licensing and accreditation procedures, which will contribute to expanding the scope of digital services, regulating electronic payment operations, and enhancing Iraq’s presence in the global digital economy.
Eatix: An Iraqi platform reshaping the future of restaurant management through digital transformation.
The Independent – The restaurant and café sector in Iraq is undergoing a rapid transformation towards digitalization, driven by changing consumer behavior and the increasing demand for smart services that combine speed, accuracy, and ease of use. At the heart of this transformation stands the Eatix platform as one of the integrated technological solutions that offers a modern vision for restaurant management through a digital system that combines operation, management, and analytics on a single platform.
The platform's role is not limited to providing a point-of-sale (POS) system, but it offers an integrated operating environment that connects all aspects of work within the restaurant, starting from receiving orders and managing tables, through the kitchen, stores and employees, all the way to financial reports and smart analytics that help business owners make more efficient decisions.
Integrated management from a single screen
Eatix is based on the concept of centralized management, where the restaurant manager can monitor various daily operations through a unified dashboard that provides a comprehensive view of performance, including sales activity, order status, table management, inventory, human resources, as well as real-time monitoring of operational indicators.
This integration aims to reduce the time spent completing daily operations, minimize human errors, and improve performance efficiency within the restaurant.
A digital experience that starts at the table
One of the platform's key advantages is its self-ordering system using QR codes, which provides customers with a more flexible and faster experience. Simply scanning the code with a mobile phone displays the electronic menu, allowing customers to browse items, select their orders, and send them directly to the kitchen. Payment can be made electronically or in cash.
This mechanism contributes to reducing waiting times, limiting the use of paper lists, and reducing the error rate in order registration, which positively impacts the quality of service and customer experience.
intelligent operating system
Eatix's services extend to include a comprehensive suite of applications designed to meet the needs of various stages of work within the restaurant, starting with the point of sale system, through applications dedicated to waiters, order display screens inside the kitchen, and up to self-service devices (Kiosk), and the online store that allows receiving and efficiently managing orders online.
This interconnection between applications leads to a smooth flow of information between different restaurant departments, reducing delays and enhancing the speed of order fulfillment.
Accurate management of inventory and resources
The platform's functions are not limited to customer service, but extend to administrative and financial aspects, as it provides an advanced inventory management system through which raw materials can be tracked, consumption levels monitored, reorder points identified, and suppliers managed, which helps to reduce waste and enhance the efficiency of resource use.
The system also includes tools for employee management, including organizing work schedules, managing shifts, and monitoring performance, as well as an accounting system that allows monitoring revenues and expenses and preparing accurate financial reports.
Analyses that support decision-making
Smart analytics stands out as one of the platform’s greatest strengths, providing instant reports on best-selling items, peak times, branch performance, and daily and monthly sales levels, in addition to indicators that help restaurant owners understand customer behavior and develop their operational and marketing plans.
This analytical aspect gives departments greater ability to make decisions based on actual data, rather than relying solely on estimates or personal experience.
Solutions designed for the Iraqi market
One of the most distinctive features of Eatix is that it was developed with consideration for the requirements of the Iraqi market, as it supports the Arabic language and provides integration with local electronic payment methods, which contributes to facilitating payment processes and promoting the spread of digital transactions within the hospitality sector.
The platform also adopts a cloud architecture that allows access to data and management of operations from anywhere, while providing different subscription levels to suit small and medium restaurants and multi-branch restaurant chains.
Towards smarter restaurants
In the face of increasing competition within the food and beverage sector, digital transformation is no longer a luxury option, but a necessity for enhancing efficiency, improving service quality, and boosting competitiveness. In this context, Eatix offers an integrated model that combines smart management, ease of use, and advanced analytics, contributing to a better customer experience and empowering restaurant owners to manage their businesses according to the latest technological practices.
As the services sector in Iraq continues to develop, specialized digital platforms such as Eatix appear poised to play an increasing role in supporting the digital transformation of restaurants and cafes, opening new horizons towards more efficient and sustainable management, in line with the aspirations of the local market and global industry standards.
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On Thursday (August 6, 2026), the capital Baghdad witnessed the opening of the first “IMAX” theater in Iraq, located inside the Mall of Iraq, in the presence of the Acting Minister of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, Sarwa Abdul Wahid, who affirmed the ministry’s support for investment and artistic projects aimed at developing the film and theater industry in the country.
As Iraq officially entered the era of modern cinematic display technologies, those in charge of the project revealed plans to establish the second IMAX theater in Baghdad, in addition to the largest private theater with a capacity of more than 5,000 spectators to host Arab and international concerts and artistic performances, stressing that the prices of tickets for the new theater are among the lowest in the world.
Culture: Developing cinema requires competition
Acting Minister of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, Sarwa Abdul Wahid, confirmed to 964 Network that the ministry supports artistic and investment projects that contribute to the development of the cinema and theater sectors, considering the opening of the first IMAX theater in Iraq as an important step that reflects the existence of cultural investments that keep pace with what exists in developed countries.
She added that developing the film industry requires an investment mindset based on competition, stressing that complete reliance on the state in managing this sector will not achieve the desired success, noting that the ministry is open to supporting projects that contribute to the production and screening of films.
5 years to reach the first IMAX in Iraq
Zaid Al-Khafaji, CEO of Iraqi Cinema, told 964 Network that work on the IMAX project took more than 5 years due to the strict technical requirements imposed by the technology's owner, explaining that the team was finally able to complete all the requirements and obtain the official license.
He added that the success of the project prompted the company to plan to establish a second IMAX theater in the Karkh district, explaining that Baghdad received an exception due to its size and population, even though the company's policy usually stipulates that there should be only one theater in each city.
The largest private theater in Iraq
Al-Khafaji revealed a new direction for the company towards investing in the theater sector, explaining that Iraq lacks a hall that can accommodate concerts and major artistic performances. Therefore, work is underway on a project to establish a theater that can accommodate more than 5,000 spectators, to host Arab and foreign singers and artists and public events.
He added that ticket prices in Baghdad are among the lowest globally for IMAX theaters, noting that they start from 15,000 dinars for front seats, 18,000 dinars for middle seats, and 25,000 dinars for VIP seats, despite deducting percentages from the ticket value for the benefit of IMAX and film production companies.
The private sector held close to 65 percent of all bank credit in Iraq at the end of May 2026, even as total lending and deposits across the banking system fell for a third straight month, according to official Central Bank of Iraq figures.
Private-sector borrowers took 47.329 trillion dinars of the 73.173 trillion dinars in cash credit outstanding at the end of May. The central government accounted for 23.420 trillion and public institutions for 2.424 trillion. Cash credit is the loans and facilities banks extend to the government and to the public and private sectors.
Total cash credit slipped from 73.832 trillion dinars in March to 73.637 trillion in April and 73.173 trillion in May.
Deposits followed the same downward path, easing from 105.090 trillion dinars in March to 104.727 trillion in April and 104.296 trillion at the end of May.
The private sector also held the largest single block of deposits, 49.615 trillion dinars, or about 47.6 percent of the total. The central government held 31.791 trillion and public institutions 22.890 trillion. Deposits supply the liquidity banks use to finance economic activity.
The figures mark the third consecutive monthly decline in both deposits and credit, according to the data reviewed by Shafaq News.
Parliamentary Finance Committee warns of state bankruptcy if the crisis continues
Member of Parliament's Finance Committee, Bassem al-Gharabi, confirmed on Thursday that the country will face bankruptcy if the crisis continues.
Speaking to reporters, al-Gharabi said, "The financial crisis is temporary, but the country will face bankruptcy if it persists." He added that "the borrowing law may only last us two or three months."
He further stated that "the Ministry of Finance is required to find permanent solutions, and the Financial Management Law prohibits borrowing outside the budget," clarifying that "the borrowing law will focus on external borrowing."
Al-Gharabi explained, "We need two months to secure oil revenues if the Strait of Hormuz is reopened," attributing the crisis to "the financial mismanagement of previous governments."
Prime Minister's Advisor Mazhar Muhammad Salih: Iraq has solutions regarding the salary crisis.
Prime Minister's Advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Saleh, confirmed on Thursday that the government is prioritizing sovereign spending, primarily salaries for employees and retirees, as well as social welfare. He stated that the government's plan will focus on reprioritizing spending to ensure the continued payment of salaries. He also indicated that the state possesses the necessary tools to guarantee salary disbursements even amidst ongoing temporary financial pressures.
Saleh, in a press statement reported by the Video News Agency, said, "The government adheres to the principle of giving absolute priority to sovereign spending, primarily salaries for employees and retirees, and social welfare. Therefore, its plan is expected to focus on reprioritizing spending, postponing some non-essential expenditures, and managing available liquidity to ensure the continued payment of salaries even under temporary financial pressures." He explained that "the current problem lies primarily in the timing of revenue inflows rather than a permanent shortage of resources, making liquidity management a crucial factor in overcoming the current phase."
He added that "the Central Bank of Iraq plays a supportive role in maintaining monetary and financial stability by managing liquidity in the banking sector and providing a suitable environment for financing the government's needs through available legal instruments, without compromising its independence or the objectives of monetary policy." He noted that "this may include facilitating subscription to treasury bills and bonds by banks and enhancing the efficiency of liquidity management in the banking system, thus ensuring the continued financing of necessary government spending, while adhering to the provisions of the Central Bank Law and refraining from direct cash financing except within exceptional legal frameworks, if any."
He explained that "the government will simultaneously rely on a mix of financial instruments to cover its financing needs, including maximizing non-oil revenues, utilizing available liquidity in the treasury, and domestic borrowing through treasury bills and bonds, in addition to the possibility of resorting to concessional external borrowing if circumstances require it." He pointed out that "the resumption of normal oil revenue flows remains the most important factor in restoring fiscal balance and enhancing financial stability."
He pointed out that "these measures, if managed within established frameworks, are not expected to have a direct impact on the central bank's foreign reserves, as these reserves are primarily allocated to supporting exchange rate stability, meeting external obligations, and bolstering confidence in the national economy. They are not typically used to finance government current expenditures. However, if circumstances necessitate exceptional measures, they will be implemented in a way that maintains safe reserve levels and does not threaten monetary stability." He added that "the duration of the crisis depends on the speed of recovery of oil revenue flows, the level of oil prices, developments in regional and international affairs, as well as the efficiency of public financial management," noting that "if the crisis remains a temporary liquidity shortage, the remedial measures are also likely to be temporary."
Saleh emphasized that "these measures are not generally considered direct lending from the central bank to the government, but rather indirect financing through government debt instruments subscribed to by banks, or through financial market mechanisms." He pointed out that "these obligations are repaid when due from public revenues, particularly oil revenues once their flow returns to normal, or from general budget resources, thus ensuring that temporary financing does not become a permanent financial burden."
He explained that "there are no official figures yet announced specifying the amount of borrowing the government might resort to, as the required financing will be determined according to the duration of the liquidity crisis and the level of revenues achieved in the coming period." He added that "from an economic perspective, it is preferable to limit borrowing to covering the temporary liquidity gap, while maintaining safe levels of public debt, and not to expand borrowing except to the extent dictated by financial necessities."
He continued: “If any continued escalation in the Strait of Hormuz leads to a sustained disruption or decrease in Iraqi oil exports, it is natural that this will negatively affect the flow of revenues to the treasury, increasing pressure on public liquidity. However, this scenario does not necessarily mean a halt in salary payments, as the state has tools to deal with temporary crises, including managing financial reserves, rearranging spending priorities, short-term borrowing, and activating domestic debt instruments. However, the challenges will increase the longer the unrest lasts, which makes diversifying oil export outlets across regional borders and adopting a policy of diversifying export routes via oil pipelines a strategic priority to enhance economic security and reduce the risks associated with dependence on a single export outlet.”
He pointed out that "the solutions are not limited to managing the liquidity crisis and temporary financing, but extend to adopting reformist visions aimed at paying off the internal public debt within an integrated development path. This vision is based on employing debt tools and fiscal and monetary policies in a way that supports productive investment and increases the productivity of the real sector, especially the industrial, agricultural, services and infrastructure sectors, in a way that contributes to creating new job opportunities, expanding the tax base and maximizing non-oil revenues. With this approach, paying off the public debt becomes a result of economic growth and an increase in GDP and public revenues, and not just a financial repayment process, in a single planning path that achieves the goals of financial sustainability, increased production, maximizing employment levels, strengthening the resilience of the national economy and reducing its dependence on oil revenues."
The Minister of Finance appoints a new Director of the Information Technology Department
On Thursday, Finance Minister Faleh Sari issued a ministerial order assigning Basil Abbas Hassan, the director of the Information and Communications Technology Department at Rafidain Bank, to manage the Information Technology Department at the Ministry of Finance on an acting basis for a period of three months.
The appointment came after the previous director, Maysara Abdul Rahim, was referred to retirement, and based on the ministerial order issued by the Ministry ofFinance and with the aim of ensuring the continuity of work, according to a letter obtained by Shafaq News Agency.
MILITARY STUFF
Houthi Attacks Kill at Least 38 Yemeni Troops Amid Escalating Tensions with Saudi Arabia
Group says strikes responded to alleged Saudi military buildup as fighting intensifies after collapse of years-long truce
Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group said Thursday it launched a series of missile and drone attacks against government positions in response to what it described as a large Saudi military buildup, while medical sources said the strikes killed at least 38 Yemeni soldiers in one of the deadliest days of fighting between the two sides in years.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree accused neighboring Saudi Arabia of amassing forces in preparation for new attacks, claiming the group's military operation targeted concentrations of what he called "Saudi enemy troops" supporting Yemen's internationally recognized government.
"Therefore, our armed forces conducted a large-scale and precise military operation targeting Saudi enemy troop concentrations," Saree said, describing the strikes as a response to the alleged buildup.
Medical sources told AFP that the missile and drone attacks killed at least 38 government troops and wounded another 29.
A Yemeni military official said a military camp in the al-Ruwaik area of Marib province in central Yemen came under attack, along with military positions in the Al-Abr and Al-Wadiah areas of Hadramawt province near the Saudi border.
According to another military source, one missile struck soldiers during their morning formation at the Marib camp, causing heavy casualties.
"At least 45 personnel were killed and wounded," the source told AFP on condition of anonymity due to security concerns.
The latest violence marks a significant escalation in Yemen's long-running conflict, which has intensified in recent weeks after the country became the latest front in the broader confrontation between the United States and Iran.
Last month, the Houthis effectively ended the relative calm that had prevailed since the 2022 UN-brokered truce after welcoming an Iranian aircraft directly into the capital, Sanaa. The move triggered reciprocal attacks, after which the group announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia and began targeting Saudi oil tankers.
The renewed hostilities have resulted in a growing number of casualties. Last month, Houthi attacks killed 16 government-aligned troops south of the strategic Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, according to medical officials.
Yemen has been engulfed in conflict since 2014, when the Houthis seized Sanaa, forcing the internationally recognized government to relocate. The war has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives, either directly through fighting or indirectly through famine and disease, and has created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises.
The Houthis continue to control the capital and much of northern Yemen, while the internationally recognized government retains control over large parts of the south.
Although a UN-mediated truce negotiated in 2022 significantly reduced large-scale combat, it formally expired without a permanent settlement. Despite holding for several years, the fragile ceasefire has unraveled amid the wider regional escalation, raising fears of a return to full-scale war in Yemen.
Saudi Arabia reveals intelligence information about imminent attacks originating from Iraq.
A Saudi official stated on Thursday evening that the Kingdom had received intelligence indicating that Iraqi armed groups were preparing to launch imminent attacks on Saudi territory, under the direction of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and in coordination with the Houthi group.
A Saudi official, whose identity was not revealed by Reuters, said in a statement followed by Al-Sa’a Network that “Saudi Arabia has detected transfers of drones and missiles, indicating the possibility of coordinated attacks launched from the north and south,” explaining that “potential targets include energy infrastructure, ports, airports, and civilian and economic sites . ”
He added that "the Kingdom will take all necessary measures to respond to any aggression," expressing his "surprise at the reports that speak of impending attacks at a time when Riyadh is continuing its efforts to reduce escalation and reach peaceful solutions," stressing: "Contacts with various parties, including Iran, are ongoing, and support is being provided for mediation efforts."
These statements come hours after an informed Iraqi source told local media that the armed factions had temporarily frozen their decision to respond to Saudi Arabia, stipulating that an official apology and compensation must be paid, and threatening to resume the response if their demands were not met .
In the same context, the Iraqi Security Media Cell announced on Thursday that the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Prime Minister Ali al-Zubaidi, directed that the level of security readiness and combat preparedness of all military formations be raised .
According to security sources, these measures coincided with the end of the deadline given by armed factions to the Iraqi government to take a position on Saudi Arabia, as well as preparations to carry out a new campaign of arrests against those accused in corruption cases .
Groups calling themselves the "Iraqi Resistance" announced on July 29 that they had given the Iraqi government a deadline ending on Thursday to take action against Saudi Arabia, accusing it of participating in targeting headquarters belonging to armed factions, and threatening to retaliate if Baghdad did not act .
It is worth noting that headquarters belonging to the Popular Mobilization Forces were subjected to joint air strikes carried out by US and Saudi forces at dawn on July 29, resulting in the death of 20 members and the injury of 32 others, after Riyadh accused Iraqi factions loyal to Iran of launching drones that targeted energy facilities inside the Kingdom, while the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard directed more than 30 air attacks within 72 hours against US forces and Saudi infrastructure .
The United States begins dismantling its air defense systems in Iraq as the withdrawal date approaches.
The United States has begun reducing its military presence in Iraq by dismantling its last air defense systems in the Kurdistan region, as the scheduled end of its forces' mission in the country approaches at the end of September.
Reports indicate that Patriot missile batteries stationed near Erbil International Airport have begun withdrawing, after playing a key role in countering missile and drone attacks targeting the region in recent months.
This development comes as the Iraqi government continues to implement its plan to restrict weapons to the state, and emphasizes that no armed formations will be allowed outside the framework of official institutions after the end of September, at a time when efforts continue to end the mission of the international coalition against ISIS.
Observers believe that reducing air defense systems raises concerns about the Kurdistan Region's ability to confront any future attacks, especially in light of the absence of an independent air defense system and the continued security tensions in the region.
In contrast, analysts point out that the American withdrawal may not be complete, but may take the form of a reorganization of the military presence, while maintaining limited defensive capabilities to protect American interests and diplomatic and military facilities inside Iraq.
Experts also link the future of the American presence to the course of growing economic relations between Baghdad and Washington, especially after the signing of dozens of investment agreements in the fields of energy, technology and infrastructure, which reflect a trend towards expanding bilateral cooperation outside the security framework.
Experts confirm that the next phase will determine the nature of the Iraqi-American partnership, in light of the continued security and regional challenges, and whether Washington will maintain a limited defensive presence in Iraq, or proceed towards a broader withdrawal while relying on economic and strategic cooperation between the two countries.
Iranian media reported two explosions on Qeshm Island on Thursday evening. The Tasnim news agency, citing Iranian sources, stated that the explosions were caused by intercepting hostile targets at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz. The sources added that the results of the operation would be announced later.
From occupation to “international coalition”... How is NATO recycling American influence in Iraq?
The Baghdad-NATO agreement to open an official NATO office in the Iraqi capital reopens the file on the Western presence in the country, amid questions about whether this move is a prelude to handing over to NATO the role that Washington has been playing alone since 2003.
The agreement was signed by Iraqi National Security Advisor Qasim al-Aboudi and NATO mission commander Lieutenant General Ramon Armada. It includes administrative coordination, information exchange, and training, with both parties confirming that the office will not have a combat character and will not be accompanied by the deployment of combat forces.
The move comes after the NATO mission withdrew from the “Victoria” base near Baghdad airport in March 2026 and moved its activities to Naples, before Iraqi assurances paved the way for its return to the capital.
Analysts believe that Washington, burdened by internal political pressures and protests from Iraqi factions, is seeking to repackage its security presence under the umbrella of “NATO,” which is less politically costly, instead of continuing the direct American presence that has become unpopular both popularly and politically.
The most sensitive issue is related to the future of the Popular Mobilization Forces, as the expansion of NATO’s role coincides with escalating American pressure to limit the capabilities of armed factions, prompting some parties to link the two paths and accuse the West of trying to weaken armed players outside the state structure.
Kataib Hezbollah in Iraq, through its Secretary-General Abu Hussein al-Hamidawi, renewed its commitment to the resistance's weapons, in an indication of the widening gap between the factions and the US-backed policies adopted by Baghdad.
The Iraqi political scene is divided: Currents close to Washington welcome the office as a training and technical lever for the army, while resistance factions see it as a disguised continuation of American influence through a less controversial UN gateway.
The fate of the actual office will be determined by the limits of its powers: if it remains within the purely training framework, it may represent a security addition, but if it turns into an alternative front for the American presence, it will encounter widespread political and security resistance within Iraq.
Hisham Al-Rikabi's statements
Al-Maliki supports al-Zaydi in restricting weapons but without confrontation and bloodshed: Power is not achieved through escalation.
Hisham al-Rikabi, director of the media office of the State of Law Coalition, said that the coalition’s leader, Nouri al-Maliki, supports Prime Minister Ali al-Zubaidi’s measures to restrict weapons to the state, but without internal confrontation and bloodshed, indicating that the state’s authority is not achieved through escalation but rather through dialogue, as he put it.
Al-Rikabi stated in a post, which was followed by the 964 Network , that “the position of the State of Law Coalition is clear and firm, which is to support the restriction of weapons to the state in accordance with the constitution and the law, but in a way that preserves civil peace and spares Iraq any internal confrontation or bloodshed, as consolidating the authority of the state is not achieved through escalation, but rather through dialogue, legal procedures, national consensus, and in a way that preserves the sacrifices of the Iraqis.”
Al-Zaydi directs raising security readiness and combat preparedness in Iraq
The Security Media Cell announced on Thursday that it has raised the security readiness and combat preparedness in Iraq.
The cell said in a statement received by Shafaq News Agency: “Under the direction of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, it was decided to raise the level of security readiness and combat preparedness of the security and military forces, including the implementation of training exercises and troop movements.”
She added, "This is within the framework of maintaining the high level of readiness of all security forces formations and enhancing their ability to perform their duties, which contributes to consolidating security and stability and protecting citizens and public interests."
A short while ago, multiple security sources reported that orders had been issued by senior leadership to raise the level of readiness among the various branches of the security and military forces throughout Iraq.
Sources told Shafaq News Agency that the orders included canceling the leave of commanders and officers and keeping them on high alert.
She added that the precautionary measures coincide with the end of a deadline set by armed factions for the Iraqi government to take a position on Saudi Arabia, as well as preparations to carry out new arrests of those accused in corruption cases.
According to the sources, raising the level of preparedness is also linked to the decision taken by the State Administration Coalition regarding restricting weapons to official institutions and ending the activity of armed factions by September 30.
She explained that the security services have already begun taking field measures in anticipation of any emergency or friction that may develop into an armed clash during the next stage.
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