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Economic expert Mustafa Hantoush suggested on Sunday that the 50 and 100 dinar denominations would return to circulation if the currency change were to proceed, noting the possibility of issuing new currency denominations with stronger security features .
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Hantoush said in a televised interview followed by Al-Sa’a Network that “the Central Bank may issue a new currency with advanced security features, with the possibility of introducing currency denominations less than 250 dinars, such as 100 fils .”
He added that "the Central Bank may move towards issuing 50 and 100 dinar denominations in the next stage," indicating that "the return of these denominations may contribute to supporting the currency and strengthening the position of the Central Bank ."
He explained that "the Central Bank has not yet made a final decision regarding this step, while the government is working on forming a committee to study the issue, pending the completion of the procedures related to it within the House of Representatives
Central Bank Governor: We are continuing to reform the banking sector and support the national economy.
The Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Mr. Nizar Nasser Hussein, affirmed the bank's continued commitment to implementing its banking sector reform program in coordination with Oliver Wyman. He indicated that the coming phase will witness further positive developments in the banking sector and enhanced integration with the international financial system.
During a dialogue with several economic experts, the Governor explained that international confidence in the Central Bank of Iraq is very high, emphasizing the strengthening of internal oversight and the implementation of preventative measures for financial and banking institutions. Regarding depositors' funds, the Governor stressed that the vast majority of deposits in the banking sector are guaranteed. He clarified that in the event of any disruption or shortfall, the Central Bank will intervene within its powers and responsibilities. He reassured the public that the Central Bank is capable of managing crises, given its reserves, financial instruments, and contingency plans.
Regarding the money supply, the governor explained that the total amount of currency issued for circulation is approximately 107 trillion Iraqi dinars, and that changing the currency will help determine the true amount of money circulating in the markets. He emphasized the important role of the media in supporting economic and banking reforms and contributing to improving Iraq's image and enhancing international confidence in the country. He also noted that the current government is operating with a vision based on the private sector and its role in economic development.
In support of economic activity, the Governor revealed new lending initiatives that the Central Bank intends to launch to support important and vital projects, thereby stimulating investment and production and strengthening the role of the private sector in the national economy. He emphasized that banking reform is an ongoing process aimed at building a more efficient and competitive banking sector and strengthening its relationship with the international financial system, thus serving financial and economic stability in Iraq.
Baghdad - Media Office
Parliamentary Finance Committee: There is an intention to issue banknotes in denominations smaller than 250 dinars.
The parliamentary finance committee revealed that there is an intention to issue smaller denominations of currency than the 250 dinar note.
This measure comes as a result of what has been described as the currency not having changed for a long time and the occurrence of counterfeiting.
The central bank governor distinguished between changing the currency and removing zeros.
According to the official newspaper, Jamal Kojar, a member of the parliamentary finance committee, revealed that "during its recent meeting with the governor of the Central Bank, the finance committee raised several questions related to removing zeros, printing currency, banks that have closed, as well as the general financial situation."
Changing the currency is one of the exclusive powers of the central bank.
While removing zeros requires legislation from the House of Representatives at the request of the government."
Changing the currency becomes necessary after a long period of time has passed since the current currency was introduced and counterfeiting operations have occurred.
There is an intention to issue smaller denominations of currency than 250 dinars, and the reason for this trend is that the currency has not changed for a long time and has been counterfeited.
Kujer concluded by saying that "printing the new currency," if it happens, will be followed by a period of time to withdraw the old currency from circulation, but this period has not yet been determined as the central bank is still studying the details of the process.
The zero removal file is back in full force.
The project to remove three zeros dates back many years, as the Central Bank began studying the idea in 2007, and its former governor, Ali Al-Alaq, said in 2024 that the project "is still in place," without specifying a date for its implementation.
But the issue resurfaced strongly last August, with parliamentary talk of including the “Zero Removal Law” within a package of economic measures, and then proposing other options including changing the currency or issuing new denominations.
The plan is to issue new banknotes smaller than 250 dinars.
revealed by a memberFinance CommitteeParliamentaryJamal Kojer The committee held discussions with the Central Bank Governor regarding the removal of zeros from the currency, currency printing, closed banks, and the overall financial situation, confirming a trend towards issuing new currency denominations.smallestFrom the 250 dinar denomination.
Kujer explained that the Central Bank Governor distinguished between "changing the currency" and "removing zeros," noting that changing the currency falls within the exclusive powers of the Central Bank and is a necessity after a long period of time since the current issue and the emergence of cases of counterfeiting, while removing zeros requires the enactment of a special law.House of RepresentativesBased on a government request, according to the official newspaper.
Kujer added that printing the new currency, if approved, would be followed by a period of time to withdraw the old versions from circulation, noting that this period has not yet been determined, given that the central bank is still studying the technical details of the process.
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The Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq , Nizar Nasser Hussein, said that the United States of America is considered a safe haven for Iraqi investments.
Hussein added on Sunday: "We invest in the United States as it is a safe haven and the only country that has granted Iraq immunity, and the risks of investing in other countries are significant."
He explained that “the total amount of currency issued in Iraq is $81.7 billion (107 trillion dinars), and what is circulating in the markets is close to $30.5 billion (40 trillion dinars), and that changing the currency is within the powers of the Central Bank, and removing zeros requires legislation in the Iraqi parliament,” according to the German Press Agency “DPA”.
Hussein continued: “There will be no more sanctions from international bodies on the Iraqi banking sector. We are continuing the reform process in coordination with Oliver Wyman. International confidence in the Central Bank of Iraq is very high, and the seven banks that were allowed to deal in currencies other than the dollar may start operating soon.”
He explained that "the majority of depositors' funds in the Iraqi Islamic Spectrum Bank are guaranteed, and if a deficit occurs, the Central Bank of Iraq will intervene. The current government is run with a private sector mindset, and the media plays an important role in improving Iraq's image internationally."
Central Bank: No more sanctions on the banking sector.
The Central Bank of Iraq affirmed on Sunday its continued commitment to the reform process and denied the existence of any sanctions on the banking sector.
A statement issued by the bank, and reported by Al-Maalomah News Agency, quoted Governor Nizar Nasser Hussein as saying during a meeting with economic experts that the banking sector reform process is ongoing in coordination with Oliver Wyman. He clarified that there are no longer any international sanctions on the banking sector.
The statement added that international confidence in the Central Bank is very high, noting that the seven banks authorized to conduct transactions in currencies other than the US dollar may begin operations soon.
It further stated that the majority of depositors' funds at Al-Taif Bank are guaranteed, and that the Central Bank will intervene if a shortfall occurs. The statement emphasized that Iraq invests in the United States as a safe haven and the only country that has granted Iraq immunity, adding that the risks of investing in other countries are significant.
The statement concluded by noting that the total issued currency amounts to 107 trillion dinars, while the amount circulating in the markets is close to 40 trillion dinars. He pointed out that "changing the currency is within the purview of the Central Bank," noting that "removing zeros requires legislation in the House of Representatives."
He affirmed that "the current government is run with a private sector mindset, and the media plays a crucial role in improving Iraq's international image," adding that "there are new lending initiatives to support important and vital projects."
Baghdad, Washington Discuss Wider Bilateral Cooperation
Iraqi PM Ali al-Zaidi meets US Chargé d'Affaires Steven Fagin in Baghdad to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and easing regional tensions through dialogue.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi received Steven Fagin, Chargé d'Affaires of the US Embassy in Baghdad, Steven Fagin, on Sunday, with both sides underscoring the importance of dialogue and diplomatic tools in easing regional tensions and safeguarding the interests of the region's peoples.
According to a statement from the Iraqi prime minister's office, the meeting addressed ways to strengthen bilateral relations between Iraq and the United States, with discussions covering the expansion of joint cooperation across various sectors in a manner intended to serve the shared interests of both countries.
The statement said the meeting also touched on the broader situation in the region, with al-Zaidi and Fagin agreeing on the necessity of relying on dialogue and diplomatic means as the sole path to reducing tensions. Both sides framed this approach as essential to reinforcing the foundations of security and stability and protecting the overriding interests of the region's peoples.
The meeting reflected continued engagement between Baghdad and Washington as both governments signaled a shared commitment to diplomacy amid ongoing regional uncertainty
Al-Zaidi and the US chargé d'affaires stressed the importance of adopting dialogue and diplomatic means to reduce tension.
Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi and the Chargé d'Affaires of the United States Mission to Iraq, Steven Fagin, stressed the importance of adopting dialogue and diplomatic means to reduce tension.
The Prime Minister’s Media Office said in a statement that “Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidy received, today, Sunday, the Chargé d’Affaires of the United States of America’s mission to Iraq, Steven Fagin,” indicating that “the meeting witnessed discussions on ways to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries, and expand the horizons of joint cooperation in various sectors and fields, in a way that contributes to strengthening the principle of partnership between the two countries.”
He added that “the meeting addressed the overall situation in the region,” noting that “the importance of adopting dialogue and diplomatic means to reduce tension was emphasized, in order to enhance security and stability in the region and preserve the interests of its peoples.”
Member of the Parliamentary Finance Committee, Amer Rahim, confirmed on Saturday that voting on a bill to remove zeros from the local currency requires extensive discussions and the enactment of a package of laws within the Parliament. He indicated that raising this issue at the present time is premature.
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Rahim told Al-Maalouma, "The step of removing zeros from the currency cannot be decided hastily; rather, it requires a series of lengthy and in-depth discussions within Parliament." He explained that "the process is closely linked to the economic reality and requires amending and enacting several supporting financial laws and regulations to ensure market stability."
He added, "Raising the discussion about this topic at this stage is premature, given the financial challenges that require first providing a comprehensive economic and banking environment before embarking on any structural change to the currency." He pointed out that "any measure of this kind without careful and prior study may negatively impact the purchasing power of citizens."
Rahim stressed "the need to focus currently on supporting the stability of the national currency and implementing banking reforms, while leaving the issue of removing zeros until economic conditions are more favorable and full legislative support is available within the House of Representatives."
Central Bank Rejects Rumors Of Devaluing Iraqi Dinar
The Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) on Saturday refuted widely circulating rumors regarding plans to increase the official USD/IQD exchange rate.
CBI Media Director Haider Ghazi reaffirmed that the official exchange rate remains fixed, dismissing claims that deposits or official transactions would be repriced to 1,460 IQD per dollar.
The central bank cautioned that false reports aim to destabilize financial markets, urging media platforms and the public to verify information via official channels.
The CBI's official selling rate stands unchanged at 1,310 IQD per USD for commercial operations and transfers.
The Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) issued a firm denial on Saturday, September 5, 2026, rejecting unverified reports and social media claims that federal monetary authorities intend to devalue the Iraqi dinar against the US dollar. Reaffirming its official policy baseline, the CBI confirmed that no adjustments to the exchange rate have been enacted, describing circulated rumors of a rate hike to 1,460 IQD as unfounded attempts to destabilize local currency markets.
Key Statements and Focus Area:
Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) Official Statement (Carried via State Media): "Reports claiming an intention to raise the exchange rate of the US dollar are completely unfounded. No decision has been issued in this regard, and the official exchange rate approved by the Central Bank has undergone no change. We urge all news outlets and social media users to exercise accuracy and rely exclusively on official sources for monetary policy updates."
Haider Ghazi, Media Director of the Central Bank of Iraq: "The rumors suggesting a rate shift to 1,460 dinars per dollar are designed to create market anxiety and undermine economic stability. The bank maintains its established exchange rate framework, and operational indicators remain grounded in official standards."
Official vs. Parallel Market Currency Benchmarks
Exchange Framework
Benchmark Rate (IQD per $1 USD)
Policy / Operational Status
Budgetary Base Rate
1,300 IQD
Government fiscal accounting baseline
CBI Official Bank Rate
1,310 IQD
Standard rate for commercial bank foreign transfer sales
Parallel Market (Baghdad)
~1,547 IQD (154,750 per $100)
Unofficial exchange bureau rate (subject to continuous market changes)
Parallel Market (Erbil)
~1,540 IQD (154,000 per $100)
Unofficial regional exchange rate (subject to continuous market changes)
Social Media Rumors and CBI Clarification
The central bank's statement followed a wave of digital posts claiming that starting September 6, official financial institutions would adjust dollar conversion pricing to 1,460 IQD per USD. Rebutting the speculative claims, the CBI clarified that monetary policy remains firmly anchored to the structural framework established alongside the Ministry of Finance.CBI officials highlighted that foreign exchange reserves and trade processing mechanisms remain stable, preventing the need for currency devaluations.
Monetary Control and Market Volatility
The CBI continues to manage the structural spread between official bank transfer rates and informal exchange markets. While local exchange bureaus in Baghdad, Erbil, and Basra traded between 1,540 and 1,547 IQD per dollar on Saturday, central bank regulators reiterated that official trade imports and foreign transfers continue to be processed at the pegged rate. Regulators warned that spreading forged notices or unauthorized policy claims would trigger legal oversight to preserve financial system security.
FYI
By immediately countering exchange rate rumors, the CBI aims to prevent speculative hoarding and artificial inflation spikes across local consumer markets. Maintaining a firm peg at 1,310 IQD reinforces the government's commitment to fiscal continuity, though persistent parallel market spreads highlight the ongoing challenge of meeting cash-dollar demand outside official banking channels.
On Saturday, informed sources revealed that the Integrity Commission and the relevant regulatory bodies are conducting investigations and audits regarding a number of financial and banking files, most notably the decline in liquidity levels at government banks, the granting of loans and financing of investment projects, as well as the special and exceptional approvals granted by government banks, particularly Al-Rafidain and Al-Rasheed banks, during the previous period.
One of the sources told Shafaq News Agency that the investigations included the mechanisms for granting facilities and loans with amounts starting from one billion dinars upwards, and the extent of their compliance with approved banking controls and instructions, in addition to auditing the entities, companies and individuals benefiting from those facilities, and the nature of the procedures that accompanied the granting of exceptional approvals.
According to preliminary data that is currently being audited, the past period witnessed a significant depletion of liquidity and financial resources, including the funds available at government banks, specifically Al-Rafidain and Al-Rasheed banks.
The source indicated that regulatory authorities are working on reviewing the amount of funds and facilities that were granted, how they were used, and the beneficiaries.
He explained that some of these files date back to the previous stage, including the financial and banking policies and procedures that were followed during the previous government and the management of the Ministry of Finance at that time, stressing that the results of the investigation and audit will determine the extent of responsibilities and any possible violations.
Another source stated that the regulatory measures came in light of the financial challenges facing the state, amid efforts to enhance liquidity management, preserve the financial resources of government institutions, and ensure that they are directed in accordance with the approved legal and economic frameworks.
A third source informed the agency that the competent authorities are continuing to audit the relevant financial and banking files, in preparation for taking the necessary legal and administrative measures in the event that violations or abuses are proven, while stressing the importance of protecting public funds and strengthening oversight of the work of government banks.
An informed source revealed on August 26 that comprehensive administrative assessments were being conducted in a number of government banks and financial institutions linked to the financial and economic sectors, coinciding with the financial crisis and the delay in paying employee salaries.
The source indicated that files were opened concerning the waste of public funds, the decline in liquidity, and information and reports that he described as "misleading" submitted by some departments to officials.
Currency exchange offices closed at Baghdad airport; travelers warned of delays.
The Baghdad International Airport administration announced on Saturday that the Central Bank of Iraq has closed a number of exchange companies operating inside the airport, warning travelers of congestion and delays in currency exchange procedures.
The airport administration said in a statement seen by “Al-Sa’a” that “passengers whose travel requires them to complete currency exchange procedures must come to the airport early and well before the flight time.”
She added that "this comes as a result of the closure of a number of exchange companies operating at the airport by the Central Bank of Iraq, which may lead to a surge and delay in the currency exchange process."
The Baghdad Airport administration urged the concerned passengers to "arrive well before the flight time, in order to avoid any delay that may affect their travel procedures."
The Central Bank warns against fake news aimed at destabilizing the economy.
The Central Bank's media director, Haider Ghazi, denied on Saturday that the dollar exchange rate had been officially changed.
Ghazi told Shafaq News Agency that "the news circulating about changing the dollar exchange rate is false and baseless."
He added that "the news aims to destabilize the economy and the exchange rate, for specific purposes."
A short while ago, news spread on social media that the exchange rate had changed, and that the Central Bank had announced that deposits would be at a rate of 1460 dinars per dollar, starting tomorrow.
The Central Bank reassures depositors and confirms the protection of their funds.
The Central Bank of Iraq affirmed on Saturday that all depositors' funds in licensed banks are protected, while also stating that the Iraqi banking system possesses sufficient liquidity to efficiently manage its operations. In a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), the bank clarified that "the Central Bank of Iraq's exercise of its powers to directly appoint supervisory or trusteeship committees to a licensed bank does not signify the bank's bankruptcy, as has been circulated on some social media platforms. Rather, these are precautionary and legal supervisory measures to ensure the bank's safety and the overall stability of its operations, and to protect depositors' rights in particular."
The statement added that "the Central Bank of Iraq applies the best international banking standards to the banking sector to guarantee its safety, compliance, and the provision of optimal financial services without compromising the rights of its depositors." It further explained that "all licensed banks participate in the Deposit Guarantee Corporation, which is a cornerstone of banking stability, through its role in compensating depositors should a bank fail to meet its obligations in accordance with applicable laws."
The bank noted that "depositors' funds are protected under applicable laws, regulations, and instructions, and the Central Bank of Iraq is closely monitoring banking procedures, particularly those related to ensuring depositors' access to their funds at any time without delay."
The bank also affirmed that "the Iraqi banking system possesses sufficient liquidity to manage its operations efficiently and under any potential pressures; the ratio of liquid assets to short-term liabilities exceeds 60%."
Affirming its pivotal role in protecting the financial system and ensuring a sound banking sector based on competitiveness and the provision of the best traditional and digital financial services, the Central Bank of Iraq wishes to inform and reassure the public of the following facts:
1. The Central Bank of Iraq's exercise of its powers to appoint supervisory or trusteeship committees to banks licensed directly by the Central Bank does not imply the bank's bankruptcy, as has been circulated in some media outlets. Rather, it is a legal and precautionary supervisory measure to ensure the bank's overall soundness and operational stability, and to protect depositors' rights in particular.
2. The Central Bank of Iraq applies the best international banking standards to the banking sector to ensure its safety, compliance, and the provision of optimal financial services without compromising the rights of its depositors. 3. All licensed banks participate in the Deposit Guarantee Corporation, which is a cornerstone of banking stability, through its function of compensating depositors in the event of a bank's inability to meet its obligations in accordance with applicable laws.
4. Depositors' funds are protected under applicable laws, regulations, and instructions. The Central Bank of Iraq pays close attention to monitoring banks' procedures, particularly those related to ensuring depositors' access to their funds at any time without delay. 5- The Iraqi banking system has sufficient liquidity to manage its operations efficiently and under any potential pressures; the ratio of liquid assets to short-term liabilities is more than (60%).
Baghdad - Media Office, September 5, 2026
PM reviewed the steps taken by the government to implement its executive program
PM Ali Al-Zaidi reviewed the steps and measures taken by the government to implement its executive program.
Al-Zaidi received on Saturday a delegation from the Reconstruction and Development Parliamentary Bloc, headed by Baha Hussein Al-Araji, according to a statement from the PM Media Office, received by the Iraqi News Agency - INA.
The meeting addressed the general situation in the country and reviewed the steps and measures taken by the government to implement its executive program, as well as several issues related to public services and citizens’ needs, project financing—including hospital projects—and border crossings, among other matters.
The Prime Minister affirmed “the important role of the Reconstruction and Development Parliamentary Bloc as the largest bloc in the Council of Representatives.”
“Passing 44 bills is important, including those concerning the Food and Drug Authority, the Popular Mobilization Forces, and the Internal Oversight Authority, stressing that rebuilding the country requires legislation that supports development,” he highlighted.
The Prime Minister emphasized, “the importance of passing the bill amending the Investment Law to meet Iraq’s investment needs in line with the country’s development vision, which calls for the state to provide all necessary infrastructure for projects.”
In turn, the head and members of the Reconstruction and Development Parliamentary Bloc expressed “their full and unwavering support for the Prime Minister and the government in all steps and measures to combat corruption and advance economic reforms.”
They also stressed “the need to pass the Oil and Gas Law and commended the Prime Minister’s initiative to provide one million residential land plots.”
Iraq "cannot afford to take risks"... State administration warns of the repercussions of US sanctions
On Saturday, the State Administration Coalition discussed completing the government formation, the draft oil and gas law, and the country’s financial situation, while stressing the need to spare Iraq the repercussions of the US sanctions imposed on some countries, in light of what it described as the “difficult financial circumstances.”
The State Administration Coalition is the ruling political umbrella that was formed on September 25, 2022 to end the political deadlock that followed the 2021 elections. At its founding, it included key forces from the Shiite, Sunni, and Kurdish components, including the Coordination Framework, the Kurdistan Democratic Party, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, the Sovereignty and Determination Alliance, and the Babylon Movement.
The coalition paved the way for the formation of Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s government in October 2022, before continuing later as a coordinating framework for the forces participating in running the state and discussing major political, economic, security and legislative issues.
In a statement issued after its thirty-eighth regular meeting at the Government Palace, the coalition said that the meeting discussed economic, political and legislative issues, in addition to developments in the internal situation and regional and international conditions.
Regarding the completion of the government formation, the attendees agreed to begin dialogue with the blocs entitled to it during the coming week, while emphasizing the continuation of coordination between the components of the coalition and supporting state institutions in facing the current challenges.
The meeting also discussed a draft of the oil and gas law in preparation for sending it to the House of Representatives, in addition to emphasizing the importance of supporting the private sector as a partner in the development process.
On the economic front, the meeting addressed the financial and investment situation, new city projects, and the project to distribute one million residential plots. The Prime Minister announced his directive to halt the demolition of encroachments until the residential land is distributed to those entitled.
The Prime Minister also announced the imminent release of a new financial payment to settle outstanding dues to farmers and contractors.
The coalition discussed the government’s measures related to combating corruption, institutional reform, and the draft law for the Federal Internal Oversight Authority, along with a number of laws that the government needs to implement its program.
The participants renewed their support for the anti-corruption campaign and the prosecution of those involved in it in accordance with the law, while stressing the importance of unifying the national position and preserving Iraq’s stability, sovereignty and higher interests.
The coalition stressed the need to spare Iraq the repercussions of the US sanctions imposed on some countries, noting that the country is going through a financial situation that "cannot tolerate taking risks."
The participants also renewed their adoption of the state’s approach to rejecting sectarian rhetoric and promoting national unity and social peace in accordance with the principles of the constitution.
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Nouri al-Maliki, head of the State of Law Coalition, stressed the importance of prioritizing the national interest and providing the necessary political support to the government.
The media office of the State of Law Coalition stated in a statement received by Al-Mirbad that “Al-Maliki met today in his office with Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi, and during the meeting they discussed the latest political and security developments in the country, the challenges facing the political process, and ways to enhance stability and protect national interests.”
Both sides stressed the importance of continuing political efforts to consolidate stability, unify national positions on current issues and challenges, and strengthen the work of state institutions to ensure the provision of services and the fulfillment of citizens’ aspirations.
During the meeting, both sides stressed the need to expedite the completion of the cabinet, ensuring the full formation of the government and enabling state institutions to effectively carry out their duties, thereby enhancing the government's ability to address political, security, and economic issues, based on the principles of consensus, partnership, and national responsibility.
Al-Maliki stressed the importance of prioritizing the national interest, providing the necessary political support for the government, and working in a spirit of cooperation and coordination among the various political forces, in order to preserve Iraq's security and stability and strengthen the political process.
Washington's messages reach Baghdad... American reservations haunt the draft law on the Popular Mobilization Forces.
revealed by the newspaper "An-Nahar"LebaneseThe American side reportedBaghdadOver the past few days, there have been clear reservations about re-tenderingbillPopular Mobilization ForcesIn its previous form, while it requestedWashingtonExplicit guarantees that all Popular Mobilization Forces formations will be subject to the authority of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and that no parallel structures or authorities will be allowed to exist alongside the security institutions.
And the law enteredPopular Mobilization ForcesA new political round inIraqMore than a year after its passage was thwarted inHouse of RepresentativesThis comes at a time when the attempt to regulate the situation of the Popular Mobilization Forces intersects with a broader governmental approach to restricting weapons to the state and readjusting the relationship between armed formations and official security institutions.
The House of Representatives had completed the first and second readings of the bill during 2025, before the process stalled at the voting stage due to political disagreements, American objections, and reservations from Sunni and Kurdish forces. The American objection at the time focused on articles that it considered...WashingtonThis could grant armed factions greater space within the formal system, and affect the nature of the security partnership withBaghdad
The issue was revived in 2026 after the Speaker of Parliament addressed the government regarding the submission of the draft law, while confirmingprime ministerAli Al-ZaidiHis government is proceeding with submitting the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) law to parliament, based on the premise that the PMF is part of the armed forces.
This coincides with the drafting of a law restricting weapons to the state, placing the government in a complex dilemma. Legally reorganizing the PMF must proceed in parallel with reducing any space for weapons and security decisions outside the official command, especially since the PMF already enjoys legal cover since the enactment of the PMF Law.Popular Mobilization ForcesLaw No. 40 of 2016 links the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, according to the newspaper.
The newspaper adds that for this reason, the dispute is not so much about the legitimacy of the PMF's existence as it is about its internal structure, its chain of command, its funding and command mechanisms, and the boundaries of the relationship between the official institution and the factions that maintain their own political, ideological, and organizational identities.
Washington is setting its conditions. In this context, an Iraqi government source revealed to the newspaper that the American side had informed Baghdad in recent days of clear reservations about reintroducing the draft law in its previous form, considering that any legislation granting the factions additional influence could directly conflict with the process of disarming the militias.
According to the source, Washington requested explicit guarantees that all PMF formations would be subject to the authority of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and that no parallel structures or powers would be allowed to exist alongside the security institutions. American concerns also focus on the articles that might grant some leaders greater independence in decision-making, funding, or command structure, thus reinforcing the separation between the official form of the PMF and the actual reality of some factions within it.
Washington is also sensitive to the timing of the reintroduction of the law, given Baghdad's ongoing efforts to restrict weapons and end all armed activity outside official institutions. According to the same source, the American message warned that passing a version of the law that contradicts security sector reform could have repercussions on security, military, economic, and financial cooperation between the two countries.
Meanwhile, [the text abruptly ends here ].Iraqi governmentThe review of several articles of the draft law aims to preserve the legal framework of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and the rights of its members, without granting factions additional space outside the official command structure. The source believes that the coming days will determine whether Baghdad can reach a formula that combines establishing the PMF as an official institution with fulfilling its obligations regarding weapons.
The institution is one thing, and the factions are another. The newspaper indicated that the main obstacle lies in the fact that legalizing the PMF has not practically led to the complete unification of its constituent formations. Since 2016, most factions have retained their names, structures, bases, and political and ideological affiliations, in addition to their presence in different areas of influence.
This reality, according to the newspaper, has left the transition from a multi-factional structure to a unified military institution incomplete, and has transformed issues of leadership, funding, and the chain of command into the core of the debate surrounding any new legislation.
The expert in strategic affairs, Major GeneralAhmed Al-DulaimiThe essence of the American observations lies precisely in this point: the necessity of subjecting all formations to the decision of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and to a single military chain of command.
The problem, according to...Al-DulaimiThis becomes apparent when certain factions retain the ability to make unilateral decisions or exert their own influence, placing the state in confrontation with armed power centers that do not always operate within the same official framework.
Hence, the value of the law becomes tied to its ability to regulate powers, leadership, funding, and command mechanisms, and to prevent duplication of decision-making, while clearly distinguishing between the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) as an official institution and the factions that may adopt independent positions or decisions.
If legislation fails to address this gap, it may transform from a tool for regulating the institution into a legal cover that legitimizes the existing reality rather than changing it.
Weapons determine the fate of the law, and this equation becomes increasingly weighty as we approach 30SeptemberThe date related to the weapons inventory and the completion of the missionInternational coalitionThis makes the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) law part of a broader debate about the shape of Iraq's security state and the future of its relationship with Washington.
The newspaper explained that the law's success will depend not so much on its passage through parliament, but rather on its ability to effectively unify security decision-making within the institution and prevent the continued existence of independent power centers operating under an official umbrella.
Ultimately, the issue remains tied to the broader question facing Baghdad today: Will the new legislation lead to a more tightly integrated PMF into state institutions, or will it solidify the existing fragmentation within the organization under a more robust legal framework?
Former MP: Washington is pushing for its conditions to be met in exchange for completing the government cabinet.
Former MP Rasoul Radhi confirmed that the US administration is exerting pressure on Iraq to achieve its conditions in exchange for giving the green light to Ali al-Zaidi to complete his cabinet.
Radhi told Al-Maalouma, "The government has an agreement and a specific date for the withdrawal of US forces from Iraq on September 30th. Resistance factions and political parties are monitoring this matter to see the seriousness of implementing this agreement before beginning a new phase."
He added, "The US administration has imposed conditions on Iraq, preventing the government from completing its cabinet or filling vacant ministerial posts until after September 30th, the date set for the withdrawal of US forces."
He explained that "America is pressuring the government and setting conditions for completing the cabinet, seeking through this pressure to disarm the Islamic resistance in Iraq."
MP: There are no economic solutions other than how to secure employee salaries
MP Abdul Hamza al-Khafaji asserted on Saturday that the government lacks clear economic solutions to address the financial crises, indicating that its primary focus is on securing employee salaries.
Al-Khafaji told the Information Agency that "the government has no economic solutions other than securing employee salaries," noting that "the Iraqi economy needs a comprehensive vision that goes beyond addressing monthly obligations." He added that "relying on oil as the main source of revenue makes the economy vulnerable to fluctuations and crises," calling for "the development of concrete plans to diversify income sources and strengthen productive sectors."
Al-Khafaji pointed out that "addressing the financial crisis requires economic and administrative reforms, reducing waste and corruption, and improving the management of public resources," emphasizing that "securing salaries should be part of a comprehensive economic plan, not the sole solution to financial problems."
He stressed the necessity of "adopting economic policies capable of creating job opportunities, stimulating the private sector, and increasing non-oil revenues," urging the government to "provide sustainable solutions that guarantee the country's financial and economic stability."
Al-Zaydi's advisor: The Iraqi economy is hostage to oil, and liberating it begins with activating other sectors.
The Prime Minister’s financial advisor, Mazhar Muhammad Saleh, confirmed on Saturday that the Iraqi economy depends almost entirely on oil export revenues, explaining that the movement of oil revenues is directly reflected in the Iraqi balance of payments, whether in cases of surplus or deficit.
Saleh told Al-Maalomah that “any shocks or crises that the global economy is exposed to from the outside directly affect the Iraqi economy, given the high level of dependence on oil as a main source of public revenues.”
He added that "one of the main ways to avoid the repercussions of global economic crises is to diversify the economy and sources of financial revenues," stressing "the need to gradually move towards a more diversified economy that is less dependent on oil."
Saleh pointed out that "Iraq should, during the next ten years, work to raise the percentage of non-oil revenues to constitute about 45 percent of the total budget revenues, which will enhance financial stability and reduce the economy's sensitivity to fluctuations in oil prices."
He emphasized that "supporting the general budget requires diversifying funding and revenue sources, along with strengthening productive sectors, especially agriculture and industry, in order to contribute to building a more sustainable economy capable of withstanding crises."
The Dollar Burdens Iraqis: Rising Prices Squeeze Citizens' Purchasing Power
here:
0:00 The dollar is rising, and with it the cost of living is rising. A number changes on the exchange screens, but its echo reaches 0:10 the citizen’s pocket from the Al-Kifah exchange market in the capital Baghdad, where the movement of the dollar is drawn daily. The numbers do not appear 0:17 to be mere prices, for every rise here leaves an impact there in the market and in the prices of goods, so the citizen finds 0:24 himself facing heavier prices, a declining purchasing power, and expenses that increase daily. 0:32 “Everything is brought in with paper (dollars/currency). First, they call us a non-producing country. We have no industry, no trade, we don’t even have 0:40 an economy. That’s why the paper affects everything. Second, the Central Bank sells at 132 outside, 0:49 the Central Bank at 154–155, it might reach 200 if they don’t catch up. We have no economy.” 0:58 Of course it is something natural: if the dollar rises, the market rises and purchasing power naturally decreases for the citizen. Why? Because most citizens first of all 1:06 have limited income. If he is an employee, his salary is fixed. If purchasing power starts to decrease and the dollar starts 1:12 to rise… what moves the market is 70–80% the employee. Economists see that the monetary policies 1:19 followed in the country, aimed at controlling inflation and maintaining exchange-rate stability, have not achieved the desired results amid the continued 1:29 gap between the official and parallel rates. Certainly, poor monetary management in developing 1:35 and underdeveloped countries with genuinely unsound economic or financial policy administrations makes 1:43 the parallel market and the parallel price the prevailing one in the market, and the one who bears it are the limited-income groups. 1:50 As for the groups with high salaries or special privileges, these 1:57 are not affected. Thus you see that most of them go to invest this difference between the two prices to make profits at the expense of the citizen. 2:05 With the increase in economic crises and price pressures, the dollar exchange rate continues its rise in the parallel markets, recording levels that reached 2:15 around 154–155,000 dinars per 100 dollars, which increases 2:24 the burdens of living and puts more pressure on the citizen’s purchasing power. Alaa Jarrah, Baghdad 2:32 Al-Rabi’ah (Fourth channel)
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