______________________________________________________
TNT
Tishwash:
Final signing at the White House… Al-Zaidi to launch a “second Iraq” in mid-July
Barak’s plan: Baghdad as the heart of a “new Middle East”
Ali al-Zaidi is close to setting a political precedent that could make him one of the fastest Iraqi prime ministers to reach the White House after assuming office.
His anticipated visit to Washington in mid-July is not seen as a mere protocol visit, but rather as an attempt to inaugurate a new phase in the relationship between Baghdad and Washington, more than two decades after the 2003 regime change in Iraq.
Political assessments suggest that the visit represents an opportunity to restructure the relationship between the two countries on different foundations, transcending the legacy of past years and opening the door to broader cooperation on energy, economic, and security issues.
However, according to observers, this path will not be without obstacles, given the continued influence of Iran and armed factions in the Iraqi landscape.
The Iraqi government announced last Monday that al-Zaidi would visit Washington in mid-July at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, shortly after US envoy Tom B*****k’s visit to Baghdad, which was accompanied by leaks that sparked widespread interest regarding issues of weapons, c********n, and the future relationship between the two sides.
Academic and political analystMohammed Naanaa believes that Tom B*****k’s meeting with al-Zaidi was a crucial step in preparing for the anticipated visit.
Advertisement
______________________________________________________
Naanaa told Al-Mada that the details of the visit were discussed during the meeting, including the issues mentioned in the Prime Minister’s office statement. These issues pertain to the complete disarmament of Iraqis, the consolidation of all armed groups under the command of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, the expansion of the American presence in Iraq, particularly for companies operating in the southern oil fields, and the granting of significant licenses to Starlink.
He added that these indicators, in his opinion, reflect an Iraqi alignment with the American vision for the future of the relationship between the two countries. He considers al-Zaidi’s visit to be pivotal and the culmination of a series of contacts, dialogues, and reciprocal visits led by B*****k and the US Chargé d’Affaires in Baghdad, leading to what he describes as “the final signing of the new relationship between the two sides.”
But Naanaa believes this path will not be without its challenges. He argues that any stability Tehran achieves will prompt it to revitalize its influence within Iraq, and that armed factions may return to exert greater pressure on the power structure, either directly or through their political representatives in parliament and the government.
The researcher emphasizes that Iraq should consider what it stands to gain from this burgeoning relationship, which is expected to culminate in the White House meeting on July 15. He stresses the importance of securing clear American support in three key sectors: banking, energy, and defense. According to Naanaa, Baghdad needs American assistance in acquiring air defense systems to protect the country, and support that will help liberalize the Iraqi monetary system, reduce exchange rate volatility, and mitigate the impact of the parallel dollar on citizens’ livelihoods.
Furthermore, assistance is needed to resolve the gas import crisis for electricity generation through alternative solutions, including floating power platforms. The issues of weapons and sovereignty were also discussed. During their recent meeting in Baghdad, al-Zaidi and Barak emphasized the importance of building a strong and mutually beneficial Iraqi-American partnership.
According to the official statement, the two sides discussed a shared vision for building a “brighter, t*******m-free” future, implementing plans for complete disarmament, dissolving all armed groups and formations operating outside the authority of the state, and ensuring that weapons are solely in the hands of the state and that full sovereignty is established.
They also stressed the need to keep Iraq out of regional conflicts and prevent its territory from being used by any party to threaten security and stability in the region, emphasizing the urgent need to fully achieve these goals.
Iraq at the heart of a new Middle East.
Former diplomat Ghazi Faisal, however, views the visit from a broader perspective that transcends the bilateral relationship between Baghdad and Washington.He tells Al-Mada that the new American initiative, which emerged after Tom B*****k was assigned the Iraq portfolio, is based on major strategic projects, including strengthening coordination and economic integration between Iraq and Syria, ultimately aiming to build a nucleus of regional cooperation that may later include Cairo, Amman, and Beirut, in addition to Baghdad and Damascus.
Faisal believes the region is facing a new phase, especially after what he calls the “historic agreement” to resolve long-standing crises with Iran dating back to 1979. He considers this agreement a precursor to a new Middle East map based on development rather than wars and conflicts.
Advertisement
______________________________________________________
He adds that Iraq is at the heart of these transformations, and that al-Zaidi’s visit could be a starting point for the country’s transition from the security, political, and economic chaos that has accompanied the post-2003 era to building a truly d********c state.
He emphasizes that the visit could lay the foundation for deeper economic and investment relations, because, as he describes it, investment is what creates jobs and stimulates the economy, while currently, about 75% of the budget goes to salaries at the expense of development and investment.
Faisal also expects the United States to support Iraq’s efforts to combat c********n within ministries, banks, and companies, and to pursue networks involved in smuggling and money laundering.
He points out that the environment created by armed factions and financial c********n in recent years has driven companies and investors to leave Iraq or freeze their projects, which necessitates providing new security and political guarantees to restore confidence in the Iraqi economy.
The visit he concludes, represents an opportunity to review the mistakes made by Washington and Iraqi political parties over the past two decades, and to move Iraq from a failing and declining state to a more stable one, better able to integrate into its regional environment. According to political sources who spoke to Al-Mada, Tom B*****k only arrived in Baghdad after Washington received initial positive signals regarding several demands it had previously conveyed to the Iraqi government.
The sources describe B*****k’s visit as pivotal in the course of Iraqi-American relations, considering it the foundation for a new phase, distinct from the period following 2003, based on clear commitments and mutual interests. The most prominent American demands, according to these sources, include the disarmament of all armed factions without exception, preventing their participation in the government, and completing the integration of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) into official security institutions after removing leaders affiliated with armed factions.
The sources indicate that these issues are still under discussion and have not yet been definitively resolved.
The American demands also include closing more than ten banks a*****d of smuggling dollars and involvement in money laundering, restructuring other financial institutions, expanding anti-c********n measures, and opening the door to broad American and Gulf investments.
According to sources, Washington links the success of these measures to the influx of major investments that Baghdad needs in the energy, infrastructure, and services sectors.
If these conditions are not met, Barak informed Iraqi officials, according to the same sources, that “all options are open,” and that the United States will act in accordance with its interests.
Compared to his predecessors, if the visit takes place as scheduled, al-Zaidi will be one of the fastest Iraqi prime ministers to reach the White House.
Only Nouri al-Maliki rivals him in this regard, having visited Washington four times during two terms, with his first visit coming just two months after assuming the premiership. In contrast, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani waited about 17 months before meeting former US President J*******n, amid American reservations and internal complications.
For his part, Ahmed al-Yassiri, an Iraqi political analyst residing in Australia, believes that focusing on the speed or timing of the visit does not reflect its true importance.
Advertisement
______________________________________________________
He tells Al-Mada that al-Zaidi did not request the visit, but rather received an invitation from the US administration. Therefore, linking its significance to the time elapsed since his assumption of office is inaccurate.
He adds that the visit’s true importance lies in providing the Iraqi political system with American backing during a sensitive regional period, and in restructuring the relationship between Baghdad and Washington amidst the ongoing transformations in the region, particularly concerning the Iranian issue and the redrawing of security and political alliances.
Al-Yassiri, who also heads the Arab-Australian Center for Strategic Studies, believes the visit will also exert internal pressure on the Iraqi government to present a realistic program regarding investment and the entry of American companies, in addition to ensuring the continued flow of Iraqi funds and preventing the country from being exposed to the risks of US sanctions.
He emphasizes that these issues will shape the features of the next phase, regardless of al-Zaidi’s ability to achieve quick results or immediate breakthroughs.
Political support or practical results?
Munqith Dagher, Middle East and North Africa director and a member of the board of directors of Gallup International, views the visit as more of a message of political support than an exceptional event.
He tells Al-Mada that the visit carries a ceremonial dimension for al-Zaidi and represents an American attempt to demonstrate its support for the Iraqi Prime Minister, especially since Washington—in his estimation—played a key role in his rise to power through Tom B*****k.
Dagher believes the timing might have been better had it been delayed slightly, but he acknowledges that American motives dictated the visit’s timing. He adds that it wouldn’t be a negative development if al-Zaidi succeeds in using the opportunity to raise important Iraqi issues and secure greater American support on vital matters.
He concludes by saying that the true measure of the visit will depend on its actual outcomes: will it remain within the realm of protocol and political messaging, or will it become a starting point for genuine progress on the outstanding issues between Baghdad and Washington? (LINK)
Source: Dinar Recaps
Advertisement
______________________________________________________
=======================================
Tishwash:
Iraq Approves Starlink License in Boost to Digital Transformation
The announcement came during a meeting in Baghdad, where the two sides discussed ways to strengthen strategic cooperation and expand partnerships between Iraq and the United States.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi and US Special Presidential Envoy to Iraq Tom B*****k on Tuesday welcomed Iraq’s decision to approve an operating license for Starlink, paving the way for the satellite internet provider to offer high-speed internet services across the country.
The announcement came during a meeting in Baghdad, where the two sides discussed ways to strengthen strategic cooperation and expand partnerships between Iraq and the United States, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
Both officials praised the licensing decision, describing it as an important step toward advancing Iraq’s digital infrastructure and accelerating the country’s digital transformation. The move is expected to improve internet accessibility, particularly in remote and underserved areas where traditional broadband services remain limited.
The approval clears the way for Starlink, the satellite internet network developed by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, to enter the Iraqi market and provide broadband connectivity through its constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites.
The meeting also highlighted the broader commitment of Baghdad and Washington to deepen cooperation in technology, investment, and economic development.
Starlink is a satellite internet service operated by Starlink Services, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the US aerospace company SpaceX. Unlike conventional internet providers that rely on fiber-optic cables or cellular towers, Starlink delivers broadband internet through thousands of satellites orbiting the Earth at low altitude, enabling high-speed connectivity with lower latency.
The service has expanded rapidly across dozens of countries, providing internet access to households, businesses, emergency responders, and communities in remote locations. Iraq’s approval of Starlink’s operating license is expected to strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure, support e-government initiatives, and improve connectivity for citizens and businesses nationwide. (LINK)
The Minister of Finance directs the disbursement of dues to contractors in five governorates as part of the first batch.
Finance Minister Faleh Al-Sari directed on Wednesday (June 17, 2026) that the dues of contractors in a number of governorates be disbursed as a first batch.
Advertisement
______________________________________________________
The ministry stated in a statement received by “Baghdad Today” that “Minister of Finance Faleh Al-Sari has ordered the disbursement of the dues of contractors in the governorates of Basra, Diwaniyah, Najaf, Babylon and Maysan, as part of the first batch of financial dues, with the dues of the other governorates to be disbursed successively and regularly.”
She added that “the head of the Iraqi and Arab Contractors Union, Ali Fakher Al-Sanafi, appreciated the serious approach of Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi and Finance Minister Falih Al-Sari in working to disburse the contractors’ outstanding dues that have been delayed for years. He also appreciated the efforts of MP Ali Shaddad for his role in following up on this file, which is related to the progress of Iraq’s economy.”
The ministry noted that “Al-Sanafi explained that adopting the disbursement mechanism in the form of successive and regular installments contributes to settling the issue of dues gradually, and enhances the stability of the work of contracting companies in various governorates.”
She noted that “Al-Sanafi confirmed that the Minister of Finance’s directive came during the meeting that brought them together today, indicating that releasing these dues represents an important step in the process of addressing the outstanding financial dues of contractors.” (LINK)
The coordination framework is discussing with al-Zaydi the completion of his government and the results of the visit by Trump’s envoy.
The Coordination Framework held its periodic meeting on Wednesday in the presence of the Prime Minister, to discuss the latest political, security and economic developments on the national scene.
According to a statement issued by the media office of the framework, a copy of which was received by Al-Furat News, the attendees listened to a presentation by the Prime Minister on the latest government procedures and files under follow-up. They also discussed the results and outcomes of the visit of US envoy Tom B*****k and the dialogues he held with the government, and emphasized the importance of protecting supreme national interests and strengthening Iraq’s foreign relations in a way that serves its stability and sovereignty.
The statement added, “The coordination framework also discussed the issue of completing the government cabinet, stressing the importance of expediting this process in order to enhance the efficiency of government performance and ensure the completion of the ministerial program requirements and meet the aspirations of citizens.”
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Coordination Framework extended its deepest condolences to the Iraqi people and the Arab and Islamic nations on the occasion of the holy month of Muharram, recalling the great values of the revolution of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) and what it represents of eternal meanings in reform, s*******e, and defense of truth and justice. (LINK)
The Prime Minister’s advisor sets a date for the recovery of Iraqi oil.
The financial advisor to the Iraqi Prime Minister, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, stated on Wednesday that the return of Iraqi oil production and exports through the Strait of Hormuz to pre-war levels depends on the implementation of a package of technical and logistical requirements, foremost among them being the clearing of the vital waterway from sea mines.
Saleh told Al-Maalomah that “the Iraqi oil fields that were damaged as a result of the forced shutdown that exceeded three months need a period of time of about a month to be restarted,” noting that “this step remains conditional on the return of the international companies that left the fields during the military operations.”
Advertisement
______________________________________________________
He added that “the second challenge is securing the arrival of oil tankers to Iraqi ports,” noting that this “is entirely dependent on the timeframe required to clear the Strait of Hormuz of mines to ensure the safety of maritime navigation and its return to its former state.”
Saleh added that “the oil sector requires a complete rehabilitation of the infrastructure, pipeline networks, and ports to be fully prepared before the actual start of crude oil pumping operations.”
He pointed out that “70 percent of Iraqi oil exports are allocated to East Asian markets,” stressing that “official contracts are still in place and valid.”
Saleh concluded his remarks by stressing that “the restoration of the Iraqi oil sector to its full production and export capacity will not happen suddenly, but will be subject to a gradual and well-thought-out timetable until the stage of full recovery is reached and cash flows for the country are secured.”
Iraqi oil exports have shrunk by 90% following recent regional events and the Israeli-American war on Iran. This challenge has revealed a clear governmental failure due to the lack of alternatives and the failure to provide any other outlet for exporting Iraqi oil, on which the state relies as its primary source of revenue to fund its budget and public expenditures. (LINK)
The head of the Iraqi Trade Bank emphasizes the importance of partnership with professional media and continuing to raise public awareness.
The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Trade Bank of Iraq (TBI), Bilal Al-Hamdani, emphasized on Wednesday the importance of partnership with professional media outlets. He noted that regular meetings are held with journalists and media professionals to provide them with accurate economic information, contributing to public awareness, reducing the spread of misinformation, and protecting public opinion from rumors.
In a statement received by Mawazin News, the bank said, “The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Trade Bank of Iraq (TBI), Bilal Al-Hamdani, met today with a group of journalists, media professionals, and economic experts, in the presence of the bank’s Vice Chairman, Sabah Al-Saadi, to discuss the role of economic media and the importance of strengthening communication between financial institutions and professional media outlets.”
Al-Hamdani praised “constructive criticism and a free press,” stressing that “there is no objection to constructive criticism and the importance of continuing to educate citizens.”
He added that “the meeting included several interventions, with journalist Abbas Aboud calling for support for professional media platforms to contribute to raising economic awareness and educating citizens, while journalist Naseer Al-Awam emphasized the importance of opening the bank’s doors to the local press and strengthening cooperation with them.”
For their part, the press delegation indicated that “Iraq needs more management and planning,” noting “the importance of continuously disseminating instructions and decisions, given the bank’s high level of public trust.” Journalists affirmed that TBI’s experience is a successful banking model and that they had presented this assessment to the Prime Minister, praising the bank’s high level of public confidence.
Advertisement
______________________________________________________
Several economic journalists explained that “economic challenges require a professional media discourse,” indicating that “the impact of a professional journalist in conveying facts can be more effective than traditional media campaigns by institutions.”
It is worth noting that the meeting was attended by representatives from the Iraqi Media Network and the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate, along with a number of newspaper editors, media professionals, and those interested in economic affairs, in a move aimed at strengthening the partnership between the banking sector and professional media. (LINK)
Source: Dinar Recaps
______________________________________________________
If you wish to contact the author of a post, you can send us an email at voyagesoflight@gmail.com and we’ll forward your request to the author (if available). If you have any questions about a post or the website, you may also forward your questions and concerns to the same email address.
______________________________________________________
All articles, videos, and images posted on Dinar Chronicles were submitted by readers and/or handpicked by the site itself for informational and/or entertainment purposes.
Dinar Chronicles is an informational news aggregator. All content, including third-party reports and community commentary, is provided for educational purposes only. We do not provide financial, legal, or tax advice. We do not recommend the purchase or sale of any currency or investment. Please consult with a licensed professional before making any financial decisions.
Copyright © Dinar Chronicles
______________________________________________________
