Saturday, April 4, 2026

Don't start none, won't be none Tehran warns Washington!

Tehran warns Washington against a ground invasion: If the Americans start the war, we will be the ones to end it.

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A high-ranking Iranian diplomatic source warned of the repercussions of any potential US ground military intervention on Iranian soil, emphasizing that Tehran would have the final say in determining the outcome of any such confrontation.

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The source stated in a press briefing, "If the Americans launch a ground operation, we will be the ones to end it," in a clear show of force reflecting the Iranian leadership's confidence in the capabilities of its armed forces.

These statements come amidst escalating tensions between the two countries, with US President Donald Trump announcing that Washington would carry out devastating strikes against Iran within the next three weeks.

Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Higseth, in his remarks on Tuesday, did not rule out resorting to a ground operation as one of the available military options.

The United States and Israel had opened a joint military front on February 28th, launching strikes targeting vital sites on Iranian territory, including the capital, Tehran.

In response, Iran continues its military retaliation with strikes targeting Israel and US military bases across the Middle East, a scenario that portends a shift towards unprecedented regional instability. 


Trump announces a strike has been carried out in Tehran, ending the lives of a number of military leaders.

 

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US President Donald Trump announced today, Saturday (April 4, 2026), that a strike was carried out in Tehran that ended the lives of a group of military leaders.

Trump said in a tweet on his “X” platform account, which was followed by “Baghdad Today”, that “the massive strike in Tehran ended the lives of many Iranian military leaders.”

He added that "the leaders targeted in the strike on Tehran ran the Iranian military establishment in a bad and unwise manner."

This strike comes in the context of escalating conflict between the United States and Iran since last February, during which the region witnessed a series of reciprocal attacks targeting military and civilian interests of both sides, including American bases and Iranian sites in neighboring countries.


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A positive appearance: Exchange rate stability reflects the strength of reserves and the flow of goods.

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 The financial advisor to the Prime Minister, Mazhar Muhammad Saleh, confirmed on Saturday that the stability of exchange rates in the local market reflects positive indicators, while pointing out that the strength of reserves and the accumulation of commodity stock contributed to reducing the fluctuations of the parallel market.

Saleh told Al-Furat News Agency: "The stability of exchange rates in the local market reflects positive indicators that are embodied in two main directions."

He added that “the flexibility of financing foreign trade from the country’s foreign currency reserves, which are among the most efficient according to the standard of trade efficiency of reserves,” indicating that “these reserves extend to cover more than a year of imports, compared to the global standard, which is estimated at only about three months, in addition to continuing to meet the demand for foreign currency at the official rate of 1320 dinars per US dollar.”

He added that "the accumulation of diverse commodity stocks, both governmental and private, covers the country's needs for essential and durable goods for a period ranging from one to three years," noting that "this stability came as a result of adopting alternative trade methods, through the efficient and rapid use of the ports of neighboring countries, which ensures the smooth flow of goods to local markets."

He pointed out that "these factors combined have contributed to reducing exchange rate fluctuations in the parallel market, and have led to a high degree of price stability, with the exception of some seasonal fluctuations in the prices of a limited number of goods."

He stressed that "the market maintained its expectations that the conflict in the Gulf and Middle East region will remain short-term and will not extend for a long period."


An economist says that declining demand has lowered the dollar's price on the parallel market.

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An economist says that declining demand has lowered the dollar's price on the parallel market.

 

Economic expert Salah Nouri confirmed on Saturday that the stability of the dollar exchange rate in the parallel market is due to a decline in demand, while pointing out that this is related to the current regional conditions.

Nouri told Al-Furat News Agency that "the stability of the dollar exchange rate in the parallel market is due to low demand as a result of the current regional conditions by those who do not resort to using central bank transfers."


Al-Marsoumi: Iraq only has 6 oil tankers and May salaries are at risk

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Economic expert, Nabil Al-Marsoumi, warned of the repercussions of the current oil situation on financial stability in Iraq, stressing that the country owns only 6 small oil tankers, at a time when a salary crisis looms in the coming months.

During his appearance on the “Free Talk” program on Al-Furat satellite channel, Al-Marsoumi said: “Iraq is the only country in OPEC that does not have a real oil fleet,” noting that “reliance on limited or rented means of transport weakens export flexibility, especially in light of regional tensions, despite the recent permission to allow oil to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.”

He explained that “Iraq canceled tanker leasing contracts with the Arab Company due to suspicions of corruption, which has left it currently lacking any maritime transport contracts,” indicating that “the country resorted to alternative solutions by exporting black oil by land through the Kurdistan Region and the Al-Walid crossing towards the Syrian port of Banias.”

Al-Marsoumi confirmed that “April salaries are secured; however, the real challenge will begin in May, when the government may have to resort to internal and external borrowing while taking austerity measures to control spending.”

He explained that "the exported quantities amount to about 160,000 barrels per day with monthly contracts of 650,000 tons, with transportation and transit fees ranging between 25% and 30% of the value per ton. Despite its high cost, it generates revenues ranging between 300 and 400 million dollars," describing this as "a forced solution."

He pointed out that "relying on a single export route, especially through Syria, represents a logistical risk," calling for "activating alternative routes through Jordan or Turkey, in addition to the need to establish oil storage facilities outside Iraq to avoid halting exports in emergency situations."

Al-Marsoumi criticized the country's oil policy, describing it as "immature," and called for "the establishment of a sovereign wealth fund to which 5% of the state's revenues would be allocated to address economic crises."

Regarding the oil sector, he explained that "a number of foreign companies left Iraq during the current crisis with the declaration of force majeure," expecting "their return after the situation stabilizes," while warning that "stopping the oil fields may lead to a decline in production and it will take time to restore it to its previous levels."

Al-Marsoumi pointed out that “the rise in global oil prices will not have a positive impact on Iraq at the moment due to limited exports and production storage,” noting that “spot market prices have exceeded futures prices as a result of supply shortages and high demand for heavy oils.”













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A council composed of Revolutionary Guard officers is preventing President Pezeshkian from communicating with Mojtaba Khamenei.



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Informed sources told Iran International that the core of central power in the Islamic Republic regime has fallen under the complete control of a military council comprising senior Revolutionary Guard officers, who have erected a security cordon around Mojtaba Khamenei and are preventing Masoud Pezeshkian’s government reports on the country’s situation from reaching him.

In light of this political impasse, President Masoud Pezeshkian has repeatedly requested an urgent meeting with Mojtaba Khamenei in recent days, but all these requests have gone unanswered, and no meeting or contact has taken place.

Meanwhile, speculation arose about the impact of Mojtaba Khamenei’s health condition on the emergence of this current political situation.



As the repercussions of the war escalate, Trump is considering a broad cabinet reshuffle.




Reuters reported on Saturday, citing five sources familiar with discussions within the White House, that US President Donald Trump is considering a broader cabinet reshuffle following the dismissal of Attorney General Pam Bondi, amid growing frustration over the political fallout from a war with Iran.

The sources stated that "any potential reshuffle could represent an attempt to reset the administration's operations, amid escalating political challenges, with the war continuing for six weeks, accompanied by rising fuel prices and a decline in Trump's popularity, along with growing concerns among Republicans as the midterm elections approach in November."

Several allies noted that "Trump's recent address to the nation did not achieve the desired effect, despite being seen as an attempt to demonstrate control and confidence, which increased calls for changes at the level of messaging or officials."

According to the sources, "Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutenick are among the names that could be subject to dismissal, despite the White House's insistence that it continues to have full confidence in them."

On the other hand, no final decisions have yet been made regarding the changes, as Trump is considering "making limited adjustments rather than a broad restructuring, in order to avoid creating an impression of chaos within the administration, as happened during his first term."

This comes at a time when recent polls have shown Trump's approval rating has dropped to 36 percent, with a majority of Americans opposing the war amid mounting economic pressures and rising energy prices.

The sources suggested that "the outlines of the anticipated changes will become clear in the coming period," noting that the dismissal of Bondy "may not be the last."



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After a call with Trump, Graham supports a military strike on Iranian power plants.


Republican Senator Lindsey Graham asserted that Trump would use "overwhelming force" if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened.

Graham said he spoke with President Donald Trump today, and after a phone call, he is convinced that the president will carry out his threat to strike Iranian power plants if they do not reach an agreement or reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Graham wrote on X.com: "After speaking with President Trump this morning, I am absolutely certain that he will use overwhelming military force against the regime if it continues to obstruct the Strait of Hormuz and rejects a diplomatic solution to achieve our military objectives. If it is not clear to Iran and others by now that President Trump means what he says, I don't know when it ever will."

Graham added that he "fully" supports Trump's warning to strike energy facilities if Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz by April 6. The president had informed Iran in a social media post this morning that it had 48 hours.






Trump threatens Iran with attacks on bridges and power stations

 

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US President Donald Trump escalated his rhetoric against Iran on Friday (April 3, 2026), threatening to expand military strikes to include bridges and power plants deep inside Iran, in the latest series of fiery statements accompanying the ongoing war since last February.

Trump said in a post on Truth Social: "Our military, the greatest and most powerful in the entire world, has not yet begun to destroy what is left in Iran. Bridges are next, then power plants."

He added: "The leadership of the new regime knows what needs to be done, and it needs to be done, and quickly."

This threat comes just one day after his remarks in which he said that "Iran's largest bridge is completely collapsing and will never be used again," warning that "more is coming," in reference to the continuation of US and Israeli military operations on Iranian soil.

Trump also urged Iran to "make a deal before it's too late," warning that failure to reach an agreement would lead to "the demise of what remains of the state," as he put it.
In earlier remarks on Thursday, he said the United States would launch strikes within "two or three weeks" aimed at "returning Iran to the Stone Age."

Since February 28, the United States and Israel have continued to carry out intensive raids on targets inside Iran, including the capital Tehran. These strikes have resulted in widespread human losses and the destruction of vital facilities, in addition to the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and a number of leaders of the Revolutionary Guard and the Iranian army.




Warnings of a "salary shock" in May... A 5 trillion deficit puts pressure on government formation and budget approval.

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Warnings of a "salary shock" in May... A 5 trillion deficit puts pressure on government formation and budget approval.

On Thursday, economist Nabil Al-Marsoumi warned of a potential shortfall of up to five trillion dinars in securing employee salaries for the month of May due to the sharp decline in oil sales caused by the disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. He urged the swift formation of the next Iraqi government with full sovereign powers to meet the needs of citizens by preparing the current year's budget.

Iraq needs more than nine trillion dinars per month, equivalent to (six billion dollars), to secure the salaries of public sector employees and workers, retirees, and to provide social welfare and food basket grants, relying on more than 90% of the financial revenues generated from oil exports, which have decreased by more than 80% after the disruption of energy supply chains in the Strait of Hormuz due to the escalating pace of military escalation in the region.

In this regard, Al-Marsoumi said in an analysis he published that although Iraq continued to export oil through the Strait of Hormuz until the eighth of March, oil revenues did not exceed $1.9 billion, which is equivalent to about 2.5 trillion dinars, indicating that according to these data, the country needs another 5 trillion dinars just to pay next month’s salaries.

He stressed that “it is necessary to expedite the formation of a fully empowered Iraqi government and prepare the 2026 budget in order to give the government the legal cover for internal and external borrowing, discounting remittances at the Central Bank of Iraq, and taking other measures to meet the basic needs of the Iraqi people, especially those related to salaries, social welfare, and the most important services such as water, electricity, and others.”

Iraq is experiencing a state of "political deadlock" as the forces and parties that won the legislative elections held in late 2015 have not been able to complete the constitutional requirements, including electing a new president of the republic and assigning a prime minister to form the next government. The steps achieved so far have been limited to electing the parliament's leadership only.

Observers warn of the repercussions of this continued delay on the political, economic and service levels in the country, especially in light of the rapidly escalating security and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East region, which necessitate the existence of a fully empowered government to manage the current crises.





Oil companies are withdrawing from Iraq, deeming it high-risk.

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International oil companies, including BP , have begun evacuating foreign staff from their sites in Basra and Kirkuk, as security threats escalate in the country.

Politico reported on Thursday (April 2, 2026) that companies described Iraq as a "high-risk environment" due to the increasing number of rocket and drone attacks targeting vital facilities and Western interests.

The report indicated that the evacuation was part of precautionary measures to protect employees, while maintaining operational processes at a minimum through local staff.

This move comes after a series of evacuations that began in March, involving foreign employees at oil fields in southern Iraq, following drone incidents inside production sites.

Hundreds of workers from American and European companies have also gradually left their posts, amid fears that energy facilities could become direct targets in the ongoing conflict.

These developments coincide with an escalation of attacks inside Iraq, which have targeted oil fields and facilities, military sites, and diplomatic missions.

Despite continued production, the reduction in foreign presence raises concerns about declining investments and a slowdown in field development, at a time when Iraq is almost entirely dependent on oil revenues.

The Iraqi government had previously affirmed its commitment to keeping the country out of the conflict, stressing that Iraq "is not a party to the conflict" and refuses to be drawn into it.

However, developments on the ground, and the evacuation of foreign companies, reflect the magnitude of the challenge in shielding Iraq from the repercussions of regional escalation.

Due to a "lack of trust," the US informs Israel that talks with Iran have stalled.

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The Hebrew newspaper "Israel Hayom" revealed on Friday that the American administration informed Israel that talks with Iran had reached a dead end due to "lack of trust" between the two sides.

The newspaper quoted a diplomatic source as saying that "lack of trust" is the main obstacle to any negotiated breakthrough, as Iran insists on an immediate ceasefire with international guarantees that attacks will not resume, while America sets conditions, most notably the full and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the handover of all enriched uranium stockpiles.

The newspaper reported that the American and Israeli sides are preparing to expand the scope of the strikes to last at least 10 more days, focusing on the infrastructure of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and civilian facilities used by the regime, amid efforts to undermine Tehran’s ability to finance its military activities.

Although major power plants and oil facilities have so far been avoided, the destruction of the Karaj bridge and non-military factories indicates a shift in field strategy.

According to assessments presented by US President Donald Trump, the operations achieved tangible results in several areas, most notably nuclear and missile capabilities, where most of the infrastructure of the military nuclear project was destroyed, and about 80% of the advanced missiles and 90% of the launch platforms were neutralized.

“Changing or weakening the regime” also emerged as a strategic goal discussed between Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with the acknowledgment that this path could take months given the weakness of the internal opposition.

The Strait of Hormuz remains the most prominent point of tension, as the Revolutionary Guard continues to target tankers, prompting Washington to strengthen its military presence and criticize "European laxity" in defending energy supplies.

The report concluded that estimates in Israel indicate that the war will not end without an agreement that guarantees the return of navigation in the strait to normal completely.






april 4

Brett McGurk: Negotiations with Tehran have reached a dead end and we will not change our conditions.

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 Brett McGurk, the former White House coordinator for Middle East and North Africa affairs, stated that diplomatic efforts to reach an agreement with Iran have reached a "dead end".

McGurk explained in an interview with CNN on Saturday, April 4, 2026, that there is a "significant gap of mistrust" between the warring parties, which is hindering any positive step to stop the war, stressing that Washington will not show any flexibility regarding its basic conditions.

According to McGurk, the US administration insists on two main points as preconditions for any kind of ceasefire:

The complete and unconditional opening of the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping.
The handover of all Iranian enriched uranium stockpiles to international authorities.
These statements from the former White House coordinator come as the war enters its fifth week, with continued US and Israeli airstrikes targeting strategic bases deep inside Iran.

McGurk noted that as long as Tehran does not comply with international obligations, military and diplomatic pressure will intensify against it, with the aim of protecting the stability of the region and securing global waterways.


An analytical comparison between the central bank's support for the national economy and Iraq's qualification for the World Cup 

 

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 On April 1st, Iraqis everywhere, from the far north to the far south, and those living abroad, erupted in a frenzy of joy that defied all logic as their national team qualified for the World Cup, the highest tournament in which nations can participate. Iraq's name echoed across news agencies, newspapers, and media outlets worldwide. The true reason for this was that the team represented all Iraqis and had qualified after being restructured and developed by an experienced coach who refused to accept defeat and whose goal was always to overcome challenges. This success was further fueled by players who loved Iraq and possessed the spirit of challenge and determination to reach the World Cup.

 

In an analytical approach that some may find strange, I find it consistent with the reality that the world is currently experiencing in complex political, security and, most importantly, economic circumstances.
 Especially the countries of the geographical region and Iraq directly, and its suffering from the effects of the current situation on our economy and the cessation of Iraq’s main revenue, which is oil exports, along with the lack of liquidity in the government and a financial situation and challenge that threatens the imminent collapse of the Iraqi economy if the current war continues. 
Here, the Central Bank of Iraq emerged to announce its commitment to confronting the crisis and its determination to overcome the challenges, steer the economy away from collapse for as long as possible, and address the shortcomings in other sectors. This was clarified in its statement on March 8th.
So the Central Bank is now steering the ship of the economy towards the shore of rescue and real reform through wise measures it has taken for the years 2023-2025 and is currently taking through its implementation of the economic reform strategy, achieving monetary and financial stability, and building foreign currency and gold reserves, which ensures the smooth running of the economy and confirms that it is always the savior in all the economic shocks that Iraq has suffered in the past and present.
This is what will make all Iraqis rejoice, just as they rejoiced when our national team qualified for the World Cup.
Therefore, the belief is that Iraqis will always triumph in the economy, sports, and other fields because they believe that they create opportunities from challenges. 
O God, protect Iraq and its noble people, and let us proclaim this with the loudest voices. 
Hold your head high, you are Iraqi.






Is Washington paving the way for a limited ground operation in Tehran or for a wider regional confrontation?

Escalating threats surrounding Iran

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With Donald Trump’s repeated threats to potentially seize Iran’s Kharg Island, questions have intensified about Washington’s true intentions toward Tehran, and whether it is considering the option of a ground intervention.

These concerns were reinforced after the deployment of thousands of American soldiers to the Middle East in recent days, amid ambiguity surrounding the nature of their missions and the objectives of their deployment.

The importance of Kharg Island as the main outlet for Iranian oil exports makes it a strategic target for any attempt to put economic pressure on Tehran, especially with Trump’s repeated threats since the beginning of the war, which included hinting at “returning Iran to the Stone Age” or targeting energy facilities on a large scale.

Limited military scenarios
: Most analysts rule out a repeat of the Iraq invasion scenario, given its still-present repercussions in the region. In this context, Nisan Rafati, an Iran analyst at the International Crisis Group, distinguishes between a full-scale invasion and limited operations, suggesting that Washington is more likely to resort to a limited ground intervention targeting specific sites, such as nuclear facilities or enriched uranium stockpiles.

Rafati points out that one of the motives for this scenario may be to break Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world’s oil trade passes, especially after it was closed as the war escalated.

Air strikes and assassinations:
The United States and Israel carried out air strikes last June targeting what they described as the "Iranian nuclear threat," resulting in the deaths of prominent military figures, including Mohammad Bagheri, Hossein Salami, and Gholam Ali Rashid, in operations that Benjamin Netanyahu considered a blow to an "existential threat."

 

Despite the risks of regional escalation
, experts warn that any ground intervention, even a limited one, could lead to a wider confrontation. Rafati anticipates that Iran will deploy its forces for a direct confrontation, while maintaining its capability to launch missile and drone attacks. He also points to the potential for the conflict to expand to include attacks on American interests in Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen.

In this context, the threats to navigation in the Bab al-Mandab Strait stand out, as the Houthis have previously targeted ships in the Red Sea, disrupting global trade.

 

The feasibility of intervention is questionable
. Canadian academic Thomas Juneau doubts the viability of any ground operation, arguing that while capturing Kharg Island might be relatively easy, holding it would expose US forces to intense attacks. He also believes the current number of US troops deployed is insufficient for a large-scale operation, noting that the invasion of Iraq required approximately 150,000 troops, while Iran is larger and geographically more complex.

 

Iran's proxies are at the forefront
of regional affairs. Estimates of the role of Iran's allies vary; while Juno believes their influence has diminished, Rafati emphasizes their continued threat, particularly in Iraq, where armed factions have previously targeted American interests. He also warns that the threat extends beyond direct attacks, encompassing the creation of an unsafe environment for navigation through increased insurance costs and disruption of trade.

Iraq is in danger
. For his part, Iraqi security expert Mukhlid Hazem warns of Iraq becoming an arena of conflict, pointing to the possibility of pro-Tehran factions becoming involved in any confrontation, and even the possibility of sending fighters to participate on the ground.

He explains that the greatest threat lies within Iran itself, where the Revolutionary Guard and Basij forces possess a long-standing combat doctrine, supported by a complex geographical nature.

 

The war's repercussions
have extended to the Gulf states, whose infrastructure has been targeted by Iranian attacks, raising fears of further escalation. Given these countries' strong alliances with Washington, the war may compel them to reassess their relationships and diversify their defense partnerships.

In the same context, energy expert Ibrahim Fahmy says that the war has broader economic dimensions, which may aim to slow Chinese growth by affecting energy supplies.

He warns that any land escalation could lead to an unprecedented rise in oil and gas prices, and possibly a complete disruption of maritime trade.

 

Given these circumstances, the possibility of a US ground intervention remains open to all possibilities,
but it is fraught with significant risks, both militarily and economically.

Between power calculations and regional reactions, the region appears to be facing a highly complex phase, where geopolitical interests intertwine with energy stakes and global security.



The coordination framework confirms that the session to elect the President of the Republic will be held on April 11.

 

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Coordination Framework member Mahmoud Al-Hayani confirmed on Saturday (April 4, 2026) the insistence on holding the session to elect the President of the Republic on its scheduled date of April 11, stressing that there is no intention to postpone the session under any circumstances.

Al-Hayani told Baghdad Today that “the political forces are moving towards completing the constitutional requirements, in line with the requirements of the current stage, and the session to elect the President of the Republic will be held on its scheduled date without postponement.”

He added that "adherence to constitutional procedures is a national priority to ensure the stability of the political process and to move towards completing the formation of constitutional authorities, and all concerned parties are working to create the necessary conditions for the success of the session and to achieve the required consensus."

A member of the coordinating framework stated that "postponing the session is absolutely out of the question," stressing that "there is a clear determination to resolve this constitutional entitlement within the specified timeframe."

For months, Iraq has been experiencing delays in fulfilling constitutional requirements, most notably the election of the President of the Republic, due to ongoing disputes between political forces, which has led to the obstruction of the formation of the new government.


The House of Representatives publishes the agenda for next Monday's session.

 

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The Media Department of the Council of Representatives announced today, Saturday (April 4, 2026), that the Council will hold its session next Monday to complete the voting on the members of the parliamentary committees.

Agenda

Session No. 15

Monday, April 6, 2026

Chamber of Deputies

Session Proceedings:

Recitation of verses from the Holy Quran

Completion of voting on the members of the Permanent Parliamentary Committees

The session begins at 11:00 a.m.

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Qani: The fate of US forces in the region is "inevitable escape".

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 The commander of the Quds Force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, Ismail Qaani, launched a scathing attack on the American military presence in the Middle East region, stressing that the ultimate fate of all these forces is to flee and evacuate the region completely.

In a post on the “X” platform (formerly Twitter), Qaani addressed the withdrawal of the American aircraft carrier “Gerald Ford”, saying: “The criminal Trump should also dismiss the commander of the aircraft carrier Gerald Ford, because this commander, out of his extreme fear of the heroic Mujahideen and the steadfast Yemeni people, did not dare to cross the Bab al-Mandab Strait.”

The commander of the Quds Force added that this warship, after two weeks of "floundering and getting lost" in the region's waters, ended up fleeing the Red Sea and the region under the cover of a "fabricated narrative" justifying its withdrawal.

Qaani concluded his message by emphasizing that there is no future for American forces in the region, stressing: "The fate that awaits all American terrorist forces is to flee from this region."



Trump: 48 hours remain before the gates of hell are opened on Iran.

 

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US President Donald Trump escalated his rhetoric against Iran on Saturday (April 4, 2026), threatening harsh measures if no agreement is reached on opening the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump said in press statements followed by “Baghdad Today” that the ten-day deadline he gave to Iran to conclude an agreement or reopen the Strait was about to expire, adding that “only 48 hours remain before the gates of hell are opened,” in reference to a possible escalation.

These statements come amid escalating regional tensions and international concerns about the repercussions of the continued closure of the strait on global energy markets and trade.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most important waterways for oil transport, through which a large part of the world's energy supply passes, making any threat to close it a source of widespread international concern.

"The Seal of the Prophets" responds to Trump's final countdown

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The Iranian armed forces responded to the latest countdown announced by US President Donald Trump before he begins bombing infrastructure in Iran and puts the country at the mercy of "hell".

Major General Ali Abdollahi, commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, assured President Trump that "if Iranian infrastructure is attacked, the gates of hell will be opened for you."

Major General Abdullahi added: "After a series of defeats, the aggressive (warmongering) US president took a desperate, reckless, unbalanced, and stupid step to threaten the country's infrastructure and national assets."

He added: "Our armed forces will not hesitate for a moment to defend the rights of the homeland and protect national property, and will stop any aggressor in his tracks."

He said: "In the event of an attack by the Zionist-American enemy, we will target all the infrastructure used by the terrorist American army, as well as the infrastructure of the Zionist entity, without limits and continuously."

The commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters confirmed that "since the beginning of the imposed war, we have fulfilled all our promises, and the meaning of this message is simply: the gates of hell will be opened upon you."

Earlier, President Trump reminded Iran that there were 48 hours left of the deadline he had set for it to reach an agreement to end the war that has been ongoing for more than a month, warning that it would face hell if it refused.

Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform: "Remember when I gave Iran 10 days to make a deal or open the Strait of Hormuz? Time is running out, only 48 hours left before hellfire descends upon them!"




Iran: The Strait of Hormuz is open to Iraq

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The spokesman for the Khatam al-Anbiya headquarters stated that Iran respects Iraqi sovereignty in light of Baghdad's firm stances in supporting Tehran, stressing that no obstacles will be placed in the way of Iraqi trade in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement issued on Saturday, April 4, 2026, Ibrahim Zolfaghari, spokesman for the Khatam al-Anbiya headquarters, revealed that Iraq was exempted from all the restrictions and strict measures imposed by Iran in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Zulfiqari explained that these restrictions only apply to countries classified as "hostile states," noting that Iran has great respect for Iraqi national sovereignty, and describing the Iraqi people as a steadfast and strong nation in the face of American hegemony.

He added that Iraq's supportive stances toward Iran "did not go unappreciated," but rather contributed to strengthening the will to continue the struggle. The statement also emphasized that Iraq, thanks to its positions and support, can seize a historic opportunity to end the presence of American forces on its soil.

Since the outbreak of war between (America, Israel) and Iran, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard has closed the Strait of Hormuz to oil tankers, leading to a significant increase in fuel prices in global markets.

This statement comes in the wake of the air strikes launched by the United States and Israel on Iran on the morning of Saturday, February 28, 2026, which resulted in the killing of a number of the country’s leaders, while Iran responded quickly by launching missile barrages towards Israel and targeting several US military bases and headquarters in countries of the region.





Thursday, April 2, 2026

IRAQIS ASK: “WHERE IS THE MONEY?” SALARY DELAYS SPARK CONCERN

the reality of salaries between the holiday and the war.Oil production has stopped, and the public is asking, "Where is the liquidity?

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The delay in paying employee salaries in recent days has sparked widespread concern among the Iraqi public, especially as the payment coincided with a long Eid holiday followed by heavy rains that disrupted work in several institutions. This has led to various interpretations, some pointing to a potential liquidity crisis amidst the current regional pressures.

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This comes after the suspension of official work for two consecutive days, Wednesday and Thursday, as part of the government's celebrations of the national team's qualification for the World Cup finals. While this move was described as having a popular character and a message of moral support to the public, it also ignited a broad debate among political and economic circles regarding the limits of using official holidays as a tool for responding to events, and whether it aligns with the country's work and production needs. This comes after a series of government-announced holidays in recent days, following the Eid al-Fitr holiday, due to severe weather and heavy rainfall. This has increased the number of official holidays in a short period, prompting observers to warn of the repercussions of accumulating holidays on institutional performance and public services. The official weekend (Friday and Saturday) will exacerbate the suffering of employees already facing long waits for their salaries.
The salary delays come at a highly sensitive time, coinciding with the escalation of the regional conflict, which has directly impacted the Iraqi economy. This is particularly true given the near-complete halt in oil exports due to disruptions in supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz. Many are linking the salary delays to the decline in state revenues, as oil is the primary source of funding for the national budget.
In a country heavily reliant on oil revenues to cover operating expenses, especially salaries, any disruption to exports immediately affects public sentiment and heightens anxiety among citizens, especially in the absence of immediate clarifications to determine the nature of the situation and distinguish between administrative shortcomings and a potential financial crisis.


However, economic expert Abdulrahman al-Sheikhli asserts that “there is absolutely no problem with this month’s salaries. The delay was due to administrative negligence, and the employees responsible should be held accountable. They failed to accurately anticipate the consequences of the long Eid holiday, which was followed by a wave of rain that disrupted work. This, in turn, delayed the preparation of payrolls on schedule, leading to speculation that the government is suffering from a liquidity shortage to fund this month’s salaries.”
Al-Sheikhli added to Iraq Observer that “what happened is not related to a financial deficit or a genuine lack of funds, but rather to poor administrative judgment and a backlog of procedures that should have been completed before the holiday to avoid any disruption affecting a large segment of employees and retirees.”
Nevertheless, the timing of the delay, coinciding with the halt in oil exports, gave the issue broader dimensions than a mere technical glitch. It quickly transformed into a potential indicator of a financial crisis in the eyes of many citizens, given the direct link between salaries and oil revenues. This further amplified public concern and anxiety.
Experts emphasize that the sensitivity of the salary issue in Iraq stems not only from its financial magnitude but also from its direct link to social stability. A large segment of families depend almost entirely on this income, meaning that any delay, even a minor one, quickly impacts markets and living expenses.
In recent hours, employees have been increasingly questioning the reasons for the delay on social media, amid fears that this could be a prelude to repeated delays if oil exports remain disrupted, despite economic assurances that the current situation does not indicate a genuine liquidity crisis.


The Ministry of Finance has directed that work continue in order to disburse salaries.

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The Ministry of Finance has directed that work continue in order to disburse salaries.

The Ministry of Finance has directed that work continue in order to disburse salaries.

Finance Minister Taif Sami instructed the Accounting and Banking Department to remain open during the holiday to complete the payment of March salaries for government employees. Sami stated that the ministry had directed the Accounting and Banking Department to continue operating to finalize the payment of March salaries for employees in the remaining spending units.

Caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani had previously ordered a holiday for Wednesday and Thursday to celebrate the national team's qualification for the World Cup. Meanwhile, Al-Rasheed Bank decided to remain open to disburse employee salaries. A statement from the bank indicated that, based on the Ministry of Finance's directives, it had instructed its branches that handle employee payroll accounts to maintain regular working hours to ensure the smooth delivery of services to citizens.

The bank emphasized its commitment to facilitating salary payments and providing the best banking services, in accordance with the directives of relevant authorities and to meet the needs of beneficiaries. In a separate development, the Real Estate Bank announced the suspension of monthly loan repayments for borrowers for the month of April.

The bank stated in a press release that, "Based on directives from the Prime Minister, and in observance of Ramadan, the bank's board of directors has decided to suspend monthly loan repayments for one month only, this April." The statement added that "this decision comes within the framework of government directives aimed at easing the burden on citizens and taking into account their living conditions." The statement concluded by saying that "monthly repayments will resume starting the following month according to the established schedules."



The World Bank expresses "deep concern" over the economic consequences of the war.

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World Bank Managing Director Pascal Donohoe expressed "deep concern" about the impact of the war in the Middle East on the global economy, at a time when a number of countries were already in a difficult situation due to a series of global crises.

"We are very concerned about the consequences this will have in terms of inflation, jobs and food security, and that is why we are preparing to provide assistance" to countries that request it, Donohue told AFP.

The Washington-based organization pays particular attention to the situation in African and Asian countries, which are especially vulnerable to rising energy prices and supply shocks.

He added, "We are consulting with several governments and countries to understand their needs, and I expect we will have more information in the coming weeks."

The World Bank, in particular, will have to use its spring meetings, to be held in Washington from April 12 to 17, "to assess the scale of the potential response."

Donohue said that currently "we are seeking to identify the available funds and interventions that may be necessary to help countries deal with the short-term effects of the war in Iran."

As part of these efforts, the World Bank on Wednesday issued a joint statement with the International Monetary Fund and the International Energy Agency announcing the creation of a "coordination group to ensure the most effective response" by these institutions to the ongoing crisis.

It is an initiative that can be expanded to include other institutions with the aim of providing expertise in different fields.


Will Iraq's cash reserves save it from the specter of deficit?

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cash reserves

Will the cash reserves save Iraq from the specter of deficit, or will the continuation of the war create an unbearable financial gap? This question imposes itself with the decline in oil revenues by up to 80%, from $6-7 billion per month to only $1 billion or $2 billion.

Experts and specialists in Iraqi economic affairs have identified, with figures, the repercussions of the ongoing war in the region on the Iraqi economy. While they indicated that Iraq is losing about $10 million daily as a result of the suspension of air traffic, in addition to about $5 billion monthly due to the decline in oil exports, they expressed their confidence in the government’s ability to pay necessary expenses, including salaries, for 6 months due to the large cash reserve.

complex crisis

Crisis management expert, Engineer Ali Jabbar, explained that “in light of the military escalation in the region, the Iraqi economy is facing a complex shock that goes beyond being a traditional oil crisis, to become a cash flow crisis that affects the core of the state’s public finances,” indicating that “Iraq depends on oil as a main source of revenues, at a rate of approximately 85 percent to 90 percent, which means that any disruption in exports directly affects the government’s ability to finance its basic obligations.”

Jabbar added, “Estimates indicate that Iraq’s oil exports have declined sharply in recent weeks, which has led to a decrease in daily revenues from about $240 million before the crisis to levels that may not exceed $50 million currently,” noting that “this means that Iraq is effectively losing about $180 to $200 million daily, or approximately $5 to $6 billion monthly.”

Revenue decline

He pointed out that “monthly oil revenues before the crisis were around 6 to 7 billion dollars, while currently they are estimated at only between 1 billion and 2 billion dollars,” stressing that this is “a significant decline that puts public finances under severe pressure.”

Regarding the suspension of air traffic, Jabbar said: “Although its direct impact is smaller compared to oil, it has broader economic repercussions,” explaining that “direct losses from this sector are estimated at about 5 to 10 million dollars a day, but they are multiplied indirectly through the disruption of business activity, its impact on religious tourism, and the increase in transportation and logistics costs. Therefore, its real impact is evident in the slowdown of general economic activity, and not just in direct revenues.”

government spending

Regarding the government's ability to continue spending , he stated that "Iraq still has a temporary safety margin thanks to its foreign reserves, estimated at around $95 to $100 billion," noting that "these reserves give the government the ability to cover salaries and basic expenses for a period ranging from three to six months."

He added that “the main problem is that these reserves are primarily intended to support monetary stability, not to compensate for the continuous loss of oil revenues,” stressing that “as the crisis continues, the government will find itself facing a difficult equation between maintaining exchange rate stability and financing current spending.”

He continued, “So far, the government’s measures seem closer to short-term remedies, such as trying to find alternative export outlets or adapting to the new reality, but they do not rise to the level of an integrated economic plan to manage the crisis.” He explained that “what is required at this stage is to move from shock management to adaptation management, by controlling public spending, rearranging priorities towards protecting salaries and basic services, while reducing unnecessary expenditures, and working at the same time to maximize any possible alternative revenues, even if they come at higher costs.”

cash reserves

He concluded by saying that “Iraq is not only facing a decline in revenues, but is going through a real test of the resilience of its economy,” noting that “reserves provide valuable time, but they are not a permanent solution, and if a considerable portion of oil exports is not restored or decisive financial measures are not taken within a short period, the situation may move from a stage of financial pressure to a stage of financial crisis that directly affects economic and social stability.”

On a related note, economist Jalil Al-Lami warned that the Iraqi economy is facing compounded pressures affecting revenue sources and the state's ability to finance its obligations, especially with the restrictions on air navigation and the increased risks of transport and insurance on oil exports, which directly impacts public finances and economic stability.

Air traffic suspended

Al-Lami added that “although the losses from the suspension of air traffic remain relatively limited, estimated at around $3 million per day from airport fees and services, the deeper impact is related to the oil sector, as Iraq’s export rate was about 3.3 million barrels per day at an average price of nearly $75 per barrel, which means that daily revenues reach about $247 million. He pointed out that “any decline of 10 percent leads to a loss of nearly $25 million per day or about $750 million per month, while losses may reach more than $1.5 billion per month if the decline rises to around 20-25 percent, taking into account that the current tensions may raise shipping and insurance costs by up to 30 percent, which reduces net actual revenues.”

Regarding the level of public revenues, he said: “Iraq used to generate between $8 and $9.5 billion monthly, more than 85 percent of which came from oil. However, these revenues are likely to decrease to around $6 to $7 billion in light of the current challenges, especially if export restrictions continue or global prices fluctuate at a time when the economy is experiencing a slowdown in non-oil sectors such as transportation, tourism and trade.”

Regarding securing government spending, the economist stated that “the biggest challenge is covering monthly expenses ranging between 10 trillion Iraqi dinars, which include the salaries of more than 4 million employees and retirees, in addition to social safety nets and operational support,” noting that “this puts the government in front of a delicate equation between declining revenues and fixed obligations, but Iraq currently has a cash reserve exceeding $107 billion at the Central Bank, which provides financial cover that allows for the continuation of funding salaries and basic expenses in the short term.”

domestic borrowing

He believed that “the continuation of the crisis for a period exceeding 3 to 6 months without stability in oil exports will lead to real pressure on liquidity and may push the government to resort to several tools, most notably expanding domestic borrowing through government banks, or gradually withdrawing from the cash reserve, or rearranging spending priorities by postponing investment projects and reducing unnecessary expenditures, with the possibility of increasing reliance on non-oil revenues such as taxes and fees, which still constitute less than 15 percent of total revenues.”

He pointed out that “the Iraqi economy is able to absorb the crisis in stages thanks to oil revenues and cash reserves,” adding that “the continuation of tensions threatens to create an increasing financial gap, and the decisive factor remains the stability and continuity of oil exports, as every 10 percent decrease in exports means a loss of nearly $1 billion per month, which makes securing government spending directly dependent on the stability of this vital sector.


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Contact between Brak and Barzani

Trump condemns attacks on Kurdistan and affirms Washington's support for protecting Iraq's security.

 

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On Wednesday evening (April 1, 2026), the President of the Kurdistan Region, Nechirvan Barzani, received a phone call from US envoy Tom Barrack, who conveyed a message of solidarity from US President Donald Trump following the recent attacks targeting the region. Trump strongly condemned the drone attack that targeted President Barzani's house in Duhok, stressing Washington's full support for protecting the security and stability of Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. Barzani expressed his appreciation for the US positions and assistance.

The Kurdistan Region Presidency stated in a statement received by 964 Network that “His Excellency Mr. Nechirvan Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Region, received this evening (Wednesday, April 1, 2026), a telephone call from Mr. Tom Barrack, Special Envoy of US President Donald Trump to Syria and US Ambassador to Turkey.”

The statement continued, “Mr. Barak conveyed a message from President Donald Trump, in which he strongly condemned the attacks targeting the Kurdistan Region, and the drone attack that targeted the home of President Nechirvan Barzani in Duhok. President Trump expressed his solidarity with His Excellency, and his condolences to the families of the martyrs, wishing a speedy recovery to the wounded.”

He added that “in the phone call, Mr. Barack affirmed President Trump’s and the United States’ full support for protecting the security and stability of Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. For his part, President Nechirvan Barzani thanked him for the call, expressing his appreciation for America’s positions and assistance to Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.”

He pointed out that “the repercussions of the war formed another axis of communication in the region.”



Parliamentary Finance Committee reassures: Iraq has sufficient cash reserves to cover salaries for six months.

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Jamal Kojar, a member of the Finance Committee in the Iraqi Parliament, confirmed on Wednesday that Iraq has a cash reserve of around $97 billion, which allows it to secure salaries for 6 months even if revenues stop completely.

In a televised interview, which was monitored by Al-Ghad Press, Kujer said: "There is no doubt that the repercussions of the war have already begun to appear globally. If you ask a citizen in America, Italy, or even China about fuel and energy prices, you will find a clear impact because energy sources and trade routes have become threatened. As for Iraq, talking about the state's inability to pay salaries at the moment is inaccurate, because the war is still in its early stages." He pointed out that "Iraq has gone through more difficult crises, such as the war against ISIS (2014-2018) and the Corona crisis, and salaries were not cut."

He added: "If the war continues for more than two additional months, or if Iraq becomes directly involved as a state in the conflict, then the economy and the bank reserves will be exposed to real risks, and we may see an impact on the value of the currency and difficulty in cash withdrawals."
Kojo stressed that "closing the Strait of Hormuz is a catastrophic scenario for global trade routes, not just for Iraq," adding, "We are also awaiting a speech from Trump, which may change the balance of power; he will either push for de-escalation or increase the severity of sanctions, and both will affect the global economy."

He pointed out that "the alternatives currently available are not as easy as expected. We have the Kurdistan route and the Aqaba route through Jordan, which are available options, but their capacity is limited compared to Basra. Even Saudi Arabia may open its borders, but the question is: Will these routes remain safe from being targeted in the event of a full-scale war?"
Kujer continued: "I assure citizens that salaries will not be affected in the foreseeable future. Iraq has a cash reserve (about $97 billion) that allows it to secure salaries for 6 months even if revenues stop completely."


The Iranian Foreign Ministry reveals the reasons behind the delay in the public appearance of Mr. Mojtaba Khamenei

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The Iranian Foreign Ministry confirmed on Wednesday that the Iranian Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is in perfect health.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry said in a press statement: "Mr. Mojtaba Khamenei is in perfect health, and the delay in his public appearance is due to the circumstances of the war."

She added that "no one in the world can trust American diplomacy anymore," explaining that "America uses diplomacy and negotiations to pave the way for imposing its demands or for using force."

She affirmed: "Tehran will defend itself to prevent a repeat of a war that America was dragged into at the instigation of the Israeli entity."



The Revolutionary Guard shot down a cruise missile in Kashan, central Iran.


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The Iranian Revolutionary Guard announced the downing of a cruise missile in Kashan, central Iran.
The Guard stated in a press release: "Our air defenses shot down a cruise missile over a village in Kashan, Isfahan province, in the center of the country."


AFP report

Teenagers harass women in Tehran; Revolutionary Guard lowers conscription age and deploys night patrols


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A report by Agence France-Presse stated that the Revolutionary Guard decided to lower the recruitment age to allow teenagers under the age of 15 to join security duties in Tehran and major cities. It quoted women who were subjected to searches at checkpoints and security posts that appear at night and search the phones of passersby, in a move that reflects the authorities’ need for more volunteers in light of escalating threats since the outbreak of war at the end of last month.

nder the strict security measures imposed by the Iranian authorities with the outbreak of the war, groups of armed boys began to spread out in the streets of Tehran to ensure security, causing fear among the residents.

From the first weeks of the war that broke out following US-Israeli strikes on February 28, the streets of the capital were filled with police or army checkpoints.

While some of them were bombed or even no longer existed, boys and children supported the patrols.

Iranian authorities have confirmed that they are using boys as young as twelve years old to bolster the ranks of the Basij forces, which are specifically tasked with maintaining security.

A 28-year-old woman, who asked not to be identified for security reasons, said that one night she drove through two checkpoints in northern Tehran, where boys as young as 13 or 14 were carrying weapons.

She indicated that one of them opened the car door and sat next to her. In a message she sent to an AFP correspondent outside Iran, she added, "He asked for my mobile phone and checked every detail, even the photos. He was extremely intrusive."

Lowering the minimum age

If circumvention of the internet blackout imposed in Iran is discovered during mobile phone inspections, it could result in imprisonment, with those transmitting information abroad being charged with espionage.

An Iranian resident of Tehran told AFP last week that he passed through a military checkpoint and found “after 100 meters several civilian vehicles with boys who were stopping cars.”

He added, “They would open doors without permission and search cars and mobile phones.”

With the mobilization campaigns targeting minors that the authorities have confirmed are being carried out, Iranians are recalling painful memories from the 1980s when thousands of children and teenagers fought in the Iran-Iraq War.

Rahim Nizali, an official in the Revolutionary Guard, revealed that the Basij units had received a huge influx of requests.

“Given the age of the applicants, we decided to lower the minimum age to twelve because children aged twelve and thirteen also want to contribute,” he said in remarks to state television last week.

Opinions differ as to whether these measures indicate difficulties facing a system in need of additional reinforcements, or a more radical shift by the authorities.

However, analysts believe that the tightening of security measures is primarily aimed at preventing any popular uprising, which has been repeatedly called for by US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

In addition to the roadblocks, supporters of the regime, who are sometimes very young, organize night patrols.

A Tehran resident said, “Sometimes they ride in cars equipped with loudspeakers, raise flags, and roam the streets, chanting slogans amidst a great commotion.”

He added, “They go to a different neighborhood every night and post recordings of their work.”


A delegation from the Kurdistan Democratic Party arrives in Baghdad to discuss three issues with political parties.

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A high-level delegation from the Kurdistan Democratic Party arrived in the capital, Baghdad, on Tuesday afternoon, March 31, 2026.

According to information obtained by Kurdistan 24, the delegation includes: Fadhil Mirani, head of the working body of the party’s political bureau; Fawzi Hariri, head of the Kurdistan Region Presidency’s office; and Nawzad Hadi and Omid Sabah, members of the party’s central committee.

The party delegation is scheduled to discuss the following topics with Iraqi political parties:

Missile and drone attacks targeting the Kurdistan Region.

The formation of the new Iraqi government.

Election of a new president for Iraq.

The Kurdistan Region has been subjected to several missile and drone attacks in the past period, which has caused great concern among the Kurdish political leadership.

The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) consistently seeks, through dialogue, to urge the federal government to uphold its responsibilities in protecting the sovereignty of Iraqi territory and the Kurdistan Region. This delegation's visit is part of ongoing efforts to pressure decision-makers in Iraq to prevent the recurrence of such attacks and maintain security and stability in the region.




A Trump advisor: No one knows what he's thinking, but don't interfere in Iran.

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Since the outbreak of war with Iran on February 28, US President Donald Trump has made numerous statements that have been described as contradictory, whether regarding the possibility of carrying out a "ground invasion" and military escalation, or negotiating and ending the war soon.

One of his advisors said he was adopting this policy in order to keep his options open.  

He also asserted that the US president "does not want to send troops into Iran." He added, "When he doesn't want to do something, he does his best not to... and of course, you can't predict his next move." 

A senior adviser also noted that "no one really knows what he's thinking in the end," according to Axios.

Another official in the US administration saw it as, "This is not a three-dimensional chess game, but a 12-dimensional chess game... No one knows what he is thinking... This is a deliberate approach." 

Some US officials, however, believed that if the April 6 deadline given by Trump to Iran to reach an agreement approached without consensus, he would deliver the "final blow" by intensively bombing Iranian infrastructure and nuclear facilities, and then withdraw.

He is expected to provide more details on Wednesday evening, US time, and around dawn in Riyadh. 

It is worth noting that Trump and several of his officials have recently been asserting that most of the objectives have been achieved. The US president affirmed that the American strikes have decimated the Iranian navy, as well as its air and missile capabilities.



Trump tasks Vance with contacting Iran

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Bloomberg reported on Wednesday that US President Donald Trump has tasked Vice President J.D. Vance with engaging with Iran.
Bloomberg quoted a source as saying, "Vance spoke with Pakistani intermediaries on Tuesday about the war with Iran." The report
added, "Trump instructed Vance to contact Iran to inform them of Washington's openness to a ceasefire in exchange for specific demands," noting that "Vance said pressure on Iranian infrastructure would be intensified until the Iranians reach an agreement."

Three US officials, according to Axios, revealed discussions between US and Iranian officials regarding a potential deal involving a ceasefire in exchange for reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
This comes as the US-Israeli conflict with Iran enters its second month, with continued exchanges of missile and drone strikes.