Al-Zaidi to Washington: A partnership of equals to finance productive projects
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All eyes are on the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi to the United States as a pivotal economic milestone, given the regional and international changes taking place in the region, and the need to reformulate economic relations between Baghdad and Washington on new and viable foundations based on investment, production, and technology transfer, moving beyond just security and oil issues.
Experts believe that the success of the visit scheduled for the middle of next month depends on turning it into a platform for launching strategic projects and feasible economic agreements that contribute to diversifying the Iraqi economy, improving the investment environment, and enhancing Iraq’s position as a regional and international economic partner.
Comprehensive vision
Amer Al-Jawahiri, an advisor on development and investment, said that the importance of the visit comes after the peace agreements witnessed in the region, and the accompanying comprehensive vision to strengthen economic relations between its countries, which opens the door for the participation of international companies in major reconstruction and development projects, including Iraqi projects.
Al-Jawahiri explained in an interview with Al-Sabah that Iraq faces major challenges, including the delay in implementing steps to diversify the economy and invest its natural resources, in addition to the large size of projects whose implementation requires a long-term government program to which successive governments are committed. He pointed out that addressing the electricity crisis represents one of the most prominent economic tests for the government, in light of the escalating financial obligations and concerns about the inadequacy of oil revenues to cover operational expenses and finance strategic projects.
Visit files
Al-Jawahiri stressed that the current stage requires unifying the economic vision among all concerned parties, calling for the Ministerial Council for the Economy to hold periodic sessions with specialists from outside government institutions and economic advisors to benefit from their expertise in preparing visit files, as well as drawing up the paths of the economic program for Iraq during the next stage.
He pointed out the need for the visit to include presenting specific economic files to the American side, foremost among them addressing the restrictions imposed on a number of Iraqi banks, and increasing flexibility in dealing with the US Federal Reserve, which would positively affect the financial sector and the movement of trade transfers. He stressed the importance of attracting direct American investments or implementing projects in partnership between the Iraqi government and the private sector, according to the model of joint-stock companies with the possibility of offering their shares to finance and operate the projects.
Investment opportunities
He pointed out that Iraq has a number of major investment opportunities, including the Al-Nibras Petrochemical Project, nitrogen fertilizer projects in Basra and Baiji, phosphate fertilizers in Al-Qaim-Akashat, the silica manufacturing project in Anbar, and the extraction and manufacturing of sulfur in Nineveh. He noted that one of the important files is also involving American companies in implementing the Development Road project, which includes railway lines, industrial cities, and production projects aimed at meeting the needs of the local market and boosting exports.
Al-Jawahiri proposed the idea of establishing an Iraqi-American financial investment fund, financed by a portion of Iraqi oil exports to the United States, to be allocated to financing well-studied productive projects that achieve sustainable economic returns. He stressed that the success of this initiative depends on the existence of a clear program and efficient management mechanisms that ensure the actual implementation of the projects. He emphasized that the success of any economic understandings requires taking practical steps to improve the business and investment environment through continuous consultation with the Private Sector Development Council, and holding a weekly roundtable that includes specialists and those concerned with the economy and business inside and outside government institutions, in order to give the Iraqi delegation a comprehensive vision that can be presented during its meetings in Washington. He also stressed the importance of stimulating competition among countries and international companies wishing to invest in Iraq, in order to ensure the best offers and the maximum benefit from the available economic potential.
Comprehensive economic partnership
For his part, financial expert Dr. Nabil Al-Abadi stressed that the visit should not be viewed as a passing diplomatic event, but rather as an economic necessity imposed by the nature of the stage that Iraq is going through, noting that the relationship with the United States has remained for years within the framework of oil and security, while the current stage provides an opportunity to move towards a comprehensive economic partnership.
Al-Abadi told Al-Sabah: “Iraq is not just a source of oil, but it possesses the potential to be a promising market for investments and modern technology, as well as being an important arena for reconstruction and an active partner in supporting the stability of global energy markets.”
He added that the visit represents a practical opportunity to implement the concept of “oil for technology and investment” by attracting major American companies to invest in advanced petrochemical industries, associated gas investment, and renewable energy, which are sectors that would add value to the national economy, support the path of economic diversification, and reduce dependence on oil revenues.
Financial and banking sector
Al-Abadi pointed out that the most prominent challenge facing the Iraqi economy is the reality of the financial and banking sector, and the challenges it faces related to financial compliance and combating money laundering, which makes it necessary to take advantage of the visit to conduct a direct dialogue with the US Treasury Department and the Federal Reserve with the aim of establishing a safe financial corridor that ensures the smooth flow of financial transfers, enhances the stability of the exchange rate, and raises the level of confidence of international investors in the Iraqi market.
He stressed that Iraq is not looking for aid or grants, but rather for a strategic economic partnership based on common interests, indicating that the success of the visit should be measured by the practical results it achieves, represented in the signing of investment agreements, and the launching of projects in the fields of gas, agriculture, industry and infrastructure, in addition to putting in place clear implementation and follow-up mechanisms that ensure that understandings are transformed into real projects that contribute to building a more diversified and productive Iraqi economy.
Iran affirms its commitment to the memorandum of understanding and announces a mechanism to oversee negotiations with Washington.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian affirmed on Tuesday his country’s commitment to the full implementation of the memorandum of understanding signed with the United States, stressing that this will be done within the framework of international laws and the rights of the Iranian people.
Pezeshkian stated that Iran seeks the full implementation of the memorandum of understanding, considering that its full implementation would contribute to the decline of many of the region's problems and "curb the aggressors."
In a related context, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi announced new arrangements to oversee future rounds of negotiations between Iran and the United States, with Qatar and Pakistan participating as mediators in the negotiation process.
Abadi explained that the upcoming negotiations will be overseen by Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, US Vice President JD Vance, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Abadi had previously announced the conclusion of technical talks between Iran and the United States in Switzerland, mediated by Qatar and Pakistan, and the reaching of an agreement on the framework for future negotiations.
According to the official Iranian news agency, it was decided to form four working groups related to ending sanctions, nuclear affairs, reconstruction and economic development, in addition to monitoring and implementation.
Representatives from Qatar and Pakistan participated in the talks, while the main Iranian negotiating team, headed by Qalibaf, returned to Tehran after the first round of talks concluded.
Mediators had announced the conclusion of the first round of talks between senior US and Iranian officials in Switzerland, and the achievement of a roadmap aimed at concluding a final agreement within 60 days, with technical talks continuing in the coming days.
The parties also agreed, according to a joint statement issued by Qatar and Pakistan, on a mechanism to end the fighting in Lebanon and open a communication channel to help ensure the safe passage of commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran says forming four groups for talks with US
“Four working groups would be established: sanctions termination, nuclear affairs, reconstruction and development, and monitoring and implementation,” said Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, as cited by the state-owned IRNA news agency.
ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq – Iran on Tuesday said that technical talks with the US in Switzerland have concluded and four negotiating groups, including on sanctions and nuclear issues, will be formed, state media reported.
“Four working groups would be established: sanctions termination, nuclear affairs, reconstruction and development, and monitoring and implementation,” said Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, as cited by the state-owned IRNA news agency.
Gharibabadi explained that the technical discussions were held to ensure the implementation of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the US that seeks an end to the Middle East war.
“It was also decided to form a contact point for the safe passage of commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz, and a conflict prevention unit in Lebanon, between member states Pakistan and Qatar,” he added.
On Monday, Iran’s foreign ministry said that it held “very brief” discussions with the US on the nuclear issue during the high-level Switzerland talks, describing the exchange as “simply an expression of positions.”
Talks between the US and Iran in Switzerland’s mountainside Burgenstock resort, named the Lake Lucerne Summit, concluded early on Monday. The negotiations are aimed at reaching a permanent end to the Iran war.
Pakistan and Qatar, the mediators, issued a joint statement earlier on Monday, announcing that a “High Level Committee” was formed to oversee the discussions between the US and Iran and that the talks were carried out in a “positive and constructive atmosphere.”
The US Treasury Department on Monday announced that a “temporary” 60-day license has been granted by Washington to authorize “the production, delivery, and sale of Iranian oil,” as part of the framework reached in negotiations with Iran in Switzerland.
On Sunday, Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters announced that the Strait of Hormuz had been closed once more over Washington's failure to implement point one of the MoU, which insists upon a total ceasefire that includes Lebanon.
However, US Central Command (CENTCOM) later insisted that the strait remained open for passage, with the conflicting accounts stressing the tenuous nature of the peace process as Washington struggles to rein in its Israeli ally amid heavy domestic pressure to secure a lasting accord.
Iraq's Parliament to resume sessions in July, cabinet vote pending
Iraq's parliament is set to open its second legislative term on July 1, with the speaker's office expected to schedule a cabinet confirmation vote in the same month.
Duha al-Sadkhan, a lawmaker with the National Approach bloc (Al-Nahj Al-Watani), told Shafaq News on Tuesday that the agenda will include first and second readings of pending legislation, as well as votes on bills that have already cleared the discussion stage. A session to complete the cabinet confirmation vote is expected to be scheduled in the second or third week of July.
The Iraqi parliament will resume its work at the beginning of July, with the cabinet reshuffle on the agenda.
Tuesday, MP Duha al-Sadkhan, from the “National Approach” bloc, revealed the date for the start of the second legislative session of the House of Representatives, confirming that the parliament’s leadership will determine during the month of July a date for the resumption of sessions, including a session to complete the vote on the ministerial cabinet.
Al-Sadkhan said that the House of Representatives' legislative recess will end next week, with the second legislative session beginning on July 1st.
She added that the Speaker of the House of Representatives will set the date for the first session after the start of the new legislative term, noting that the agenda will include reading and discussing a number of draft laws, while other laws need to be voted on within the council.
She indicated that the parliament's leadership will determine, during the second or third week of July, a date for holding a session to complete the vote on the cabinet.
The resumption of the House of Representatives' work comes amid anticipation of discussing and approving a number of important and postponed laws, as Al-Sadkhan had previously confirmed the existence of more than 100 draft laws in the halls of parliament, distributed between laws that need to be read and discussed and others that are waiting for amendment or voting.
According to Al-Sadkhan, the new legislative session is expected to witness the discussion and voting on a number of prominent pieces of legislation, most notably the Oil and Gas Law, the Popular Mobilization Forces Law, the Federal Court Law, the Federal Civil Service Council Law, the Retirement Law, and the Salary Scale Law.
The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Adnan Faihan, had previously confirmed that there was parliamentary activity to proceed with the legislation of a number of important and delayed laws, most notably the Oil and Gas Law, the Popular Mobilization Forces Law, and the Federal Civil Service Law.
These laws are among the most prominent legislative files postponed during recent parliamentary sessions, especially the oil and gas law, which is still subject to disputes regarding the management of natural resources and the distribution of revenues between the federal government, the Kurdistan Region, and the oil-producing governorates.
An economist reveals two main objectives behind tightening procedures at border crossings.
Economic expert Mahmoud Dagher confirmed on Tuesday that the recent government measures at border crossings stem from two main tracks, one security-related and the other economic, with the aim of tightening control over the borders and boosting customs revenues.
Dagher told Al-Sa’a Network in an exclusive statement that “the first approach is to try to tighten control over the borders and end the gaps that have persisted for years, which will help to strengthen internal security and improve relations with neighboring countries that have repeatedly complained about the existence of gaps in the border and customs walls.”
He added that "the second trend relates to improving customs performance and maximizing revenues," explaining that "Iraq has made significant progress through the ASYCUDA system, but there are still loopholes that allow some goods to pass through without being fully subject to customs procedures, which leads to a loss of financial revenues and affects the protection of the national economy."
Dagher pointed out that “the redeployment of national security and border police elements within the ports reflects the transformation of port security and customs security into a top priority for the state,” noting that “this comes in light of Iraq’s heavy reliance on imports and its extensive network of trade relations with various countries around the world.”
He stressed that “Baghdad seeks to prevent the entry of goods that are not subject to Iraqi instructions or that do not pass through official customs procedures,” explaining that “this approach explains an important aspect of the recent decisions aimed at strengthening control, protecting the national economy and increasing the state’s financial resources.”
Will the "programs and performance" budget succeed in converting funds into services?
: Specialists and experts have confirmed that the program and performance budget the government is moving towards implementing represents a significant shift in public spending management. However, it faces implementation challenges related to the readiness of ministries, the efficiency of monitoring, and the ability of institutions to translate financial allocations into tangible services for citizens.
The Prime Minister's financial advisor, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, told Al-Mada that the government is proceeding with the implementation of the program and performance budget, which links financial allocations to measurable performance indicators and results within state institutions. This aims to improve spending efficiency and direct resources towards the most effective programs.
He explained that the new system enhances transparency and financial governance and raises the level of accountability, which could lead to improved public services. However, he also pointed to challenges related to the varying levels of readiness among ministries, weak institutional and information infrastructure, and the need to develop monitoring systems and build administrative capacity.
For her part, Suad al-Maliki, a former member of the Parliamentary Strategic Planning Committee, warned in an interview with Al-Mada against proceeding with a program-based budget for 2027 without evaluating the results of the current budgets. She emphasized that the success of the experiment hinges on the government's ability to effectively implement the 2025 and 2026 budgets. She explained that the delays in the 2025 budget schedules and the lack of clarity regarding implementation results raise questions about the readiness for the transition to the new system. She added that the success of this transformation requires political will and coordination between the executive and legislative branches, along with the adoption of transparent standards and each ministry accurately identifying its needs before auditing by central authorities. She noted that the transitional phase may witness gaps due to administrative changes.
Similarly, economic expert Duraid al-Anzi believes that the success of a program-based budget is not linked to changing its name or form, but rather to the state's ability to implement and monitor it. Speaking to Al-Mada, he said that the fundamental problem lies not in preparing the budgets, but in converting funds into actual projects and services, warning against the continuation of stalled projects that hinder the achievement of results. He added that weak executive efficiency and the absence of integrated economic planning lead to continued waste and a diminished impact of public spending, stressing that genuine reform begins with improving management before increasing allocations.
Al-Anzi pointed out that building an effective economic planning system requires extensive institutional reform that will extend over several years, potentially up to ten, to achieve comprehensive sustainable development. He believes the greatest challenge lies in implementation, not in the plans themselves.
While the government is banking on program and performance budgeting to reorganize public spending and link it to results, the real test remains the ability of state institutions to translate allocations into tangible services that citizens can actually experience.
The government settles the debate over the dollar exchange rate.
Government spokesman Haider al-Aboudi confirmed that neither the government nor the central bank intends to change the exchange rate of the dollar against the Iraqi dinar .
Al-Aboudi said in a televised interview followed by Al-Sa’a Network that “there is no intention to raise the exchange rate of the dollar against the Iraqi dinar,” indicating that “the monetary and financial policy between the government and the Central Bank is proceeding in an integrated and regular manner .”
He pointed out that "the printing of currency is stored in all banks of the world, and it acquires its value when it enters circulation," stressing that "all salaries are guaranteed ."
Regarding the amendment of the salary scale, Al-Aboudi explained: “In order for this matter to be achieved, the Iraqi government alone cannot proceed with amending the salary scale unless the Iraqi state, with its executive and legislative authority, is able to amend no less than 30 laws within the constitution .”
He added that "the existing laws on which the salaries of state employees varied are due to the existence of laws that grant special privileges to certain segments
Iraq Vision 2035: Banks Second
In a previous article titled "An Eye on the Government Program," we offered an initial analysis of the program and concluded that its vision rests on three interconnected strategic objectives: economic and financial reform, institutional reform, and combating corruption. These are fundamental pillars, none of which can be achieved in isolation if the Iraqi economy is to overcome its structural distortions and transition to a sustainable development path befitting Iraq's potential and resources.
The Prime Minister's tenure began auspiciously with a visit to the Ministry of Finance, the "House of Money" responsible for managing public resources. However, the next priority should have been to engage with the banking sector, the primary source of funding for any development project.
The banking sector is not merely a financial intermediary; it represents the infrastructure for financing and investment, and it is the tool upon which modern economies rely to mobilize savings and direct them toward productive projects. Therefore, developed countries are keen to develop their banking sector and enhance its efficiency, as it is a key partner in implementing strategic projects and providing financial services to companies and investors.
The Prime Minister's meeting with representatives of the private sector was a significant step in the right direction, as it acknowledges the role of the market and the private sector in the development process. However, the exceptional importance of the banking sector necessitates a separate and in-depth dialogue with it, given the structural challenges it faces that affect its ability to support other economic sectors.
The Iraqi banking sector faces a number of challenges today, most notably the sanctions and measures that have affected a large number of banks, resulting in a decline in confidence and restrictions on banking activity. Despite the reform efforts led by the Central Bank of Iraq and the government in cooperation with international consulting firms and institutions, there remains a need to address each case individually, accurately diagnose its causes, and develop practical solutions that will restore confidence in the sector and return it to its natural role in financing development.
What is needed today is not only to continue banking reform programs, but also to hold frank and professional dialogue sessions that bring together regulatory bodies, banks, and relevant government agencies, with the aim of identifying the real problems and addressing them according to clear legal and institutional principles. Restoring confidence in the banking sector is a fundamental prerequisite for the success of any long-term development strategy.
Building a recovering and sustainable Iraqi economy also requires avoiding scattering efforts among separate commitments and goals that are difficult to achieve in the short and medium term, and focusing instead on a long-term strategic vision, implemented in gradual stages that take into account local and global economic, political and technological variables.
The success of Iraq's Vision 2035 will not be achieved through increased spending alone, but rather through building a strong and reliable banking sector capable of mobilizing resources and directing them towards productive investment, and transforming the economy from a rentier economy dependent on distribution to a productive economy driven by finance, investment, and partnership. The interplay between the state and the market.
Khalifa Qasim al-Araji in al-Maliki's office to discuss the challenges of the current phase
On Tuesday (June 23, 2026), Nouri al-Maliki, head of the State of Law Coalition, received the new National Security Advisor, Qasim al-Aboudi, in a meeting that discussed the latest political and security developments and current challenges. Both sides stressed the importance of supporting stability, strengthening the role of state institutions, and continuing dialogue between national forces in a way that preserves Iraq’s security and sovereignty.
Nouri al-Maliki’s media office stated in a statement received by Network 964 that “he received in his office today, National Security Advisor Mr. Qasim al-Aboudi.”
The statement added that “at the beginning of the meeting, Mr. Maliki welcomed Mr. Aboudi, wishing him success in his new duties, while they discussed the latest political and security developments in the country, and the challenges facing Iraq at the present stage.”
Both sides emphasized “the importance of supporting the path of stability, strengthening the role of state institutions, and consolidating cooperation and coordination between various parties in a way that serves the national interest and preserves Iraq’s security and sovereignty.”
He added that “they also stressed the need to continue the dialogue between the national forces, in order to contribute to confronting the challenges and strengthening joint action to achieve the aspirations of the Iraqi people.”
An economist reveals two main objectives behind tightening procedures at border crossings.
Economic expert Mahmoud Dagher confirmed on Tuesday that the recent government measures at border crossings stem from two main tracks, one security-related and the other economic, with the aim of tightening control over the borders and boosting customs revenues.
Dagher told Al-Sa’a Network in an exclusive statement that “the first approach is to try to tighten control over the borders and end the gaps that have persisted for years, which will help to strengthen internal security and improve relations with neighboring countries that have repeatedly complained about the existence of gaps in the border and customs walls.”
He added that "the second trend relates to improving customs performance and maximizing revenues," explaining that "Iraq has made significant progress through the ASYCUDA system, but there are still loopholes that allow some goods to pass through without being fully subject to customs procedures, which leads to a loss of financial revenues and affects the protection of the national economy."
Dagher pointed out that “the redeployment of national security and border police elements within the ports reflects the transformation of port security and customs security into a top priority for the state,” noting that “this comes in light of Iraq’s heavy reliance on imports and its extensive network of trade relations with various countries around the world.”
He stressed that “Baghdad seeks to prevent the entry of goods that are not subject to Iraqi instructions or that do not pass through official customs procedures,” explaining that “this approach explains an important aspect of the recent decisions aimed at strengthening control, protecting the national economy and increasing the state’s financial resources.”
Khalifa Qasim al-Araji in al-Maliki's office to discuss the challenges of the current phase
On Tuesday (June 23, 2026), Nouri al-Maliki, head of the State of Law Coalition, received the new National Security Advisor, Qasim al-Aboudi, in a meeting that discussed the latest political and security developments and current challenges. Both sides stressed the importance of supporting stability, strengthening the role of state institutions, and continuing dialogue between national forces in a way that preserves Iraq’s security and sovereignty.
Nouri al-Maliki’s media office stated in a statement received by Network 964 that “he received in his office today, National Security Advisor Mr. Qasim al-Aboudi.”
The statement added that “at the beginning of the meeting, Mr. Maliki welcomed Mr. Aboudi, wishing him success in his new duties, while they discussed the latest political and security developments in the country, and the challenges facing Iraq at the present stage.”
Both sides emphasized “the importance of supporting the path of stability, strengthening the role of state institutions, and consolidating cooperation and coordination between various parties in a way that serves the national interest and preserves Iraq’s security and sovereignty.”
He added that “they also stressed the need to continue the dialogue between the national forces, in order to contribute to confronting the challenges and strengthening joint action to achieve the aspirations of the Iraqi people.”
Al-Rasheed announces that more than 155,000 retirees will be included in the "My Installments" service.
On Tuesday, Al-Rasheed Bank announced that (155,849) retirees have been included in the “My Installments” service, as part of a plan to expand the base of beneficiaries of electronic financing and installment services.
The bank stated in a statement received by Shafaq News Agency that "the (My Installments) service had previously included employees of state departments and members of the Ministries of Interior and Defense, while its scope has now been expanded to include retirees, in support of their purchasing power and to facilitate their access to their needs through easy installment mechanisms."
He added that "the service comes within his directions to promote financial inclusion and expand the scope of electronic banking services provided to citizens."
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Iraq enters the era of space communications... and "Starlink" is the latest fruit of the technological openness led by the Al-Zaidi government.
After years of discussing digital infrastructure modernization and attracting global technology companies, Prime Minister Ali al-Zubaidi's government has achieved a new breakthrough in the telecommunications sector by finalizing the procedures for bringing Starlink service to Iraq. Experts view this as part of a broader strategy adopted by the government to develop digital infrastructure, promote technological transformation, and open the Iraqi market to global investments in a sector closely linked to economic development and modern services.
American billionaire Elon Musk recently announced the launch of Starlink satellite internet service in Iraq following the official approval of its operating license. This opens the door to a new era of high-speed communication services and reflects the success of the government's efforts to attract global technology companies and modernize the country's digital infrastructure.
Musk stated in a post on the X platform that Iraq had approved the Starlink operating license, paving the way for the launch of satellite internet services within the country. Prime Minister Ali al-Zubaidi and US Special Envoy to Iraq Tom Barrack welcomed the license approval, indicating the project's importance to Iraq and its international partners.
Following directives
from Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, the past period witnessed intensive government meetings and discussions regarding the company's operational mechanisms within Iraq and the requirements for granting a license. This aligns with the government's strategy to attract global technology companies and expand internet service options for citizens.
Starlink's entry represents a strategic development for the Iraqi telecommunications sector, as the service provides internet access to remote, border, and desert areas that have suffered for years from weak traditional infrastructure. Furthermore, it offers higher connection speeds and greater service stability compared to many currently available alternatives.
This development comes after months of government initiatives and technical discussions led by relevant telecommunications sector stakeholders, within a broader approach adopted by al-Zaidi's government to promote digital transformation and attract global technology investments, in parallel with programs to develop electronic infrastructure and expand the scope of government digital services.
Experts believe that the entry of the giant American company represents a new message of confidence in the Iraqi investment environment, especially since Starlink is one of the largest satellite internet projects in the world, and operates in dozens of countries through a wide network of low-orbit satellites.
The project’s benefits are not limited to improving internet services for citizens, but extend to supporting the economic, educational, health and security sectors, by providing more stable communications for government institutions, companies and investment projects, as well as supporting e-government and digital transformation projects that Baghdad seeks to accelerate in the coming years.
Technology expert Nawras Aref said that “Starlink’s entry into Iraq represents an important step towards modernizing the communications sector and raising the efficiency of digital services, especially as the world is rapidly moving towards relying on smart infrastructure and high-speed sustainable connectivity.”
Aref added to Iraq Observer that “Iraq needs such advanced services because they give users super speeds and internet access in areas that are difficult to cover with traditional terrestrial networks, and they also provide future solutions that support e-learning, digital commerce and smart government services.”
He explained that “the presence of global companies the size of Starlink within the Iraqi market will create a positive competitive environment that will drive the development of local services and raise quality levels, as well as enhance Iraq’s attractiveness to international technology investments.”
In keeping with global trends
, experts confirm that the government's success in completing the licensing procedures reflects a clear desire to keep pace with global technological advancements, especially given the growing need for a modern communications infrastructure capable of supporting the demands of the digital economy, foreign investment, artificial intelligence projects, and cloud services.
As the official launch of the service approaches, Iraqis anticipate a new era of internet services, with expectations that Starlink's entry will help bridge the digital divide between cities and remote areas, and open broader horizons for the digital economy and the technological transformation that the government seeks to establish within its development vision for the coming years.
season for hunting down corrupt individuals
News of arrests of those accused of corruption and embezzlement of public funds continues almost daily, along with reports of the recovery of substantial sums from them. Just yesterday, and in the preceding days, specialized authorities recovered more than 98 billion dinars and 11 million dollars, and seized 70 properties, 21 modern cars, three kilograms of gold jewelry, and a large cache of weapons and ammunition. All of this was related to a single case and involved a single defendant.
We are witnessing a strategic shift in the methods of directly pursuing major corrupt individuals, going beyond the traditional methods that were previously followed. The matter is no longer limited to small-time bribe-takers, but concerns officials in advanced positions. We are also witnessing oversight pressure capable of uncovering the plans of corrupt individuals and their attempts to hide or destroy money.
What has been achieved during these two days, and what will be achieved in the future, is the fruit of two important factors. The first relates to auditing contracts concluded in previous periods and launching intensive investigations into them to uncover the financial waste that accompanied them. The second is working to institutionalize integrity. After the establishment of the Supreme Sovereign Council for Integrity and Oversight, we saw how the efforts of both the Integrity Commission and the Financial Control Bureau were combined to uncover highly sensitive files related to officials in senior positions.
Another factor that contributed to the achievement of these important steps cannot be overlooked, which is the judicial effort, especially the role of the Supreme Judicial Council, which is the main pillar and legal guarantee that would transform anti-corruption efforts into deterrent measures.
Al-Zaidi to Washington: A partnership of equals to finance productive projects
All eyes are on the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi to the United States as a pivotal economic milestone, given the regional and international changes taking place in the region, and the need to reformulate economic relations between Baghdad and Washington on new and viable foundations based on investment, production, and technology transfer, moving beyond just security and oil issues.
Experts believe that the success of the visit scheduled for the middle of next month depends on turning it into a platform for launching strategic projects and feasible economic agreements that contribute to diversifying the Iraqi economy, improving the investment environment, and enhancing Iraq’s position as a regional and international economic partner.
Comprehensive vision
Amer Al-Jawahiri, an advisor on development and investment, said that the importance of the visit comes after the peace agreements witnessed in the region, and the accompanying comprehensive vision to strengthen economic relations between its countries, which opens the door for the participation of international companies in major reconstruction and development projects, including Iraqi projects.
Al-Jawahiri explained in an interview with Al-Sabah that Iraq faces major challenges, including the delay in implementing steps to diversify the economy and invest its natural resources, in addition to the large size of projects whose implementation requires a long-term government program to which successive governments are committed. He pointed out that addressing the electricity crisis represents one of the most prominent economic tests for the government, in light of the escalating financial obligations and concerns about the inadequacy of oil revenues to cover operational expenses and finance strategic projects.
Visit files
Al-Jawahiri stressed that the current stage requires unifying the economic vision among all concerned parties, calling for the Ministerial Council for the Economy to hold periodic sessions with specialists from outside government institutions and economic advisors to benefit from their expertise in preparing visit files, as well as drawing up the paths of the economic program for Iraq during the next stage.
He pointed out the need for the visit to include presenting specific economic files to the American side, foremost among them addressing the restrictions imposed on a number of Iraqi banks, and increasing flexibility in dealing with the US Federal Reserve, which would positively affect the financial sector and the movement of trade transfers. He stressed the importance of attracting direct American investments or implementing projects in partnership between the Iraqi government and the private sector, according to the model of joint-stock companies with the possibility of offering their shares to finance and operate the projects.
Investment opportunities
He pointed out that Iraq has a number of major investment opportunities, including the Al-Nibras Petrochemical Project, nitrogen fertilizer projects in Basra and Baiji, phosphate fertilizers in Al-Qaim-Akashat, the silica manufacturing project in Anbar, and the extraction and manufacturing of sulfur in Nineveh. He noted that one of the important files is also involving American companies in implementing the Development Road project, which includes railway lines, industrial cities, and production projects aimed at meeting the needs of the local market and boosting exports.
Al-Jawahiri proposed the idea of establishing an Iraqi-American financial investment fund, financed by a portion of Iraqi oil exports to the United States, to be allocated to financing well-studied productive projects that achieve sustainable economic returns. He stressed that the success of this initiative depends on the existence of a clear program and efficient management mechanisms that ensure the actual implementation of the projects. He emphasized that the success of any economic understandings requires taking practical steps to improve the business and investment environment through continuous consultation with the Private Sector Development Council, and holding a weekly roundtable that includes specialists and those concerned with the economy and business inside and outside government institutions, in order to give the Iraqi delegation a comprehensive vision that can be presented during its meetings in Washington. He also stressed the importance of stimulating competition among countries and international companies wishing to invest in Iraq, in order to ensure the best offers and the maximum benefit from the available economic potential.
Comprehensive economic partnership
For his part, financial expert Dr. Nabil Al-Abadi stressed that the visit should not be viewed as a passing diplomatic event, but rather as an economic necessity imposed by the nature of the stage that Iraq is going through, noting that the relationship with the United States has remained for years within the framework of oil and security, while the current stage provides an opportunity to move towards a comprehensive economic partnership.
Al-Abadi told Al-Sabah: “Iraq is not just a source of oil, but it possesses the potential to be a promising market for investments and modern technology, as well as being an important arena for reconstruction and an active partner in supporting the stability of global energy markets.”
He added that the visit represents a practical opportunity to implement the concept of “oil for technology and investment” by attracting major American companies to invest in advanced petrochemical industries, associated gas investment, and renewable energy, which are sectors that would add value to the national economy, support the path of economic diversification, and reduce dependence on oil revenues.
Financial and banking sector
Al-Abadi pointed out that the most prominent challenge facing the Iraqi economy is the reality of the financial and banking sector, and the challenges it faces related to financial compliance and combating money laundering, which makes it necessary to take advantage of the visit to conduct a direct dialogue with the US Treasury Department and the Federal Reserve with the aim of establishing a safe financial corridor that ensures the smooth flow of financial transfers, enhances the stability of the exchange rate, and raises the level of confidence of international investors in the Iraqi market.
He stressed that Iraq is not looking for aid or grants, but rather for a strategic economic partnership based on common interests, indicating that the success of the visit should be measured by the practical results it achieves, represented in the signing of investment agreements, and the launching of projects in the fields of gas, agriculture, industry and infrastructure, in addition to putting in place clear implementation and follow-up mechanisms that ensure that understandings are transformed into real projects that contribute to building a more diversified and productive Iraqi economy.
Will Iran succeed in maintaining its influence within Iraq?
A growing debate is taking place about the future of Iranian influence in Iraq in light of regional transformations and increasing international pressure. While one side sees Tehran’s influence continuing through its allies, others believe that Washington is capable of reducing this influence in the next phase, according to the Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper .
The newspaper, in a report seen by Al-Sa’a Network, quoted its sources as saying that “the basis of the partnership (between Washington and Baghdad) that is beneficial to both parties is that the state deals with the challenge of the militias and confines their weapons to the hands of the state,” indicating that “this is the threshold that must be achieved and overcome in order for this partnership to be realized .”
She added that "Iran has proven over the past two decades that it knows exactly what it wants from Iraq, unlike the American confusion, and I think that will continue even after the signing of the American-Iranian agreement ."
She noted that “Iran may adopt a different approach after the agreement, one that is not entirely public and does not anger Washington, but it will maintain its usual influence in Iraq,” explaining that “Tehran remains firmly in control of Iraqi politics through the group of figures and parties loyal to it .”
The report noted that "the threat of economic sanctions alone is enough to push Shiite leaders and political parties in particular to reconsider the risks of the continuation and growth of Iranian influence in Iraq ."
He added that "Iraq's oil revenues go to the Federal Reserve (the US central bank) after the sale, before the latter returns them to Iraqi banks
Lebanese diplomat: Trump is under economic and electoral pressure, and reaching an understanding with Iran has become a priority for Washington.
Former Lebanese Ambassador to Canada, Massoud Maalouf, confirmed on Tuesday (June 23, 2026) that “US President Donald Trump is facing a real political and economic predicament today, and is trying to find a way out that saves face before the upcoming midterm legislative elections.”
Malouf added, in his interview with “Baghdad Today”, that “before the outbreak of the latest confrontation with Iran, the Strait of Hormuz was open to international navigation without restrictions or fees,” but the military developments and the extensive strikes that Iran was subjected to, which targeted nuclear, missile, military and civilian facilities, and the accompanying heavy human losses, prompted Tehran to respond by using the economic pressure card represented by closing the strait.
He added that "this step caused sharp increases in global energy prices, which directly impacted the American economy and the daily lives of American citizens," explaining that "the majority of voters in the United States view the issues of the economy, prices, and internal security as the top priority, which led to a decline in popular support for the war and an expansion of the circle of opponents of Trump's policies."
Maalouf pointed out that "the US administration has come to realize that the continuation of the crisis will cost it a heavy political price," therefore "Trump has become more willing to make concessions during the ongoing negotiations with Iran, in an effort to reach an understanding that will alleviate economic pressures and give him a better chance before the upcoming elections."
He explained that "the initial agreement that existed between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was based on separating the Lebanese issue from the American-Iranian negotiation track," but that "the Iranian insistence on including a ceasefire in southern Lebanon among the basic conditions for negotiations prompted Washington to modify its position."
Maalouf pointed out that "Trump and his deputy, Jay D. Vance, have been exerting increasing pressure on Netanyahu to stop military operations in southern Lebanon, fearing that their continuation would jeopardize the anticipated understandings with Tehran."
He stressed that "the talks held in Switzerland led to initial understandings regarding the establishment of an international mechanism to monitor the ceasefire in Lebanon, considering this file as one of the key elements for the success of the broader agreement between Washington and Tehran."
Regarding Iranian funds, he clarified that "the talk of $300 billion is not related to frozen Iranian assets," but rather a proposal put forward by Trump based on contributions from Gulf Arab states to reconstruction and investment projects within Iran after the crisis ends and a comprehensive agreement is reached. The Iranian funds actually frozen are estimated at around $100 billion, distributed among several countries, including South Korea and Qatar, which hold approximately $24 billion.
He concluded by saying that "current indicators suggest that Washington may begin to gradually release a portion of these funds," starting with approximately $12 billion of the assets held in Qatar, with "other phases to follow depending on the extent to which both parties are committed to implementing the terms of the agreement and the understandings that are being reached."
Iran Declares Three-Day Public Holiday for Khamenei Funeral Ceremonies
According to Hassan Hassanzadeh, an IRGC commander overseeing the funeral arrangements, farewell ceremonies and prayers for Khamenei will be held at Tehran's Grand Mosalla on July 4 and 5, while the official funeral is scheduled for July 6.
Iranian authorities have declared three days of public holidays in Tehran to mark the funeral ceremonies of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, state television reported on Tuesday.
According to Hassan Hassanzadeh, an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander overseeing the funeral arrangements, farewell ceremonies and prayers for Khamenei will be held at Tehran's Grand Mosalla on July 4 and 5, while the official funeral is scheduled for July 6.
"The farewell ceremony and prayers for the martyred leader's body will be held on Saturday and Sunday, July 4 and 5, in Tehran's Grand Mosalla, and the funeral will be held on Monday, July 6, and Tehran province will be off for these three days," Hassanzadeh was quoted as saying by state media.
Earlier reports indicated that Tehran would observe public holidays on July 4 and 5, while the funeral day on July 6 would be a nationwide holiday across Iran.
Khamenei was killed during a joint U.S.-Israeli airstrike campaign that targeted key Iranian leadership sites. The operation involved intelligence support from the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and was carried out by Israeli and U.S. air forces.
The strike severely damaged Khamenei's primary residence and office compound and also resulted in the deaths of several senior Iranian officials, as well as members of his family, including his daughter, granddaughter, and son-in-law.
After initial reports and conflicting accounts, the Iranian government officially confirmed Khamenei's death on March 1.
Following a brief transitional period overseen by an interim council, Iran's Assembly of Experts appointed Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader's 56-year-old son, as the country's new Supreme Leader on March 8.
The funeral ceremonies are expected to draw large crowds of mourners, senior Iranian officials, and foreign delegations to the capital.
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