China: I See Your Trade War And Raise You A Cyberwar

China: I See Your Trade War And Raise You A Cyberwar

Notes From the Field By  James Hickman (Simon Black) April 2, 2025

It was sometime in the spring of 323 BC when Alexander the Great-- the “King of the World”-- passed through the gates of ancient Babylon for the last time.

He had already conquered the city nearly a decade before. But his men were worn out from fighting in India and Persia, and Babylon was a secure place to give his army a much-needed rest.

They remained there for a few months, until, quite suddenly, Alexander became extremely ill on either the 10th or 11th of June and then died.

The cause of his death is unknown. Some say he was poisoned. Others blame malaria, typhoid fever, or complications from his battle wounds.

 What is certain, however, is that he left behind no legitimate male heir, as his wife was still pregnant at the time of his death. So almost immediately a power struggle broke out as to who would succeed him.

 Macedonian tradition at the time dictated that whoever buried Alexander’s body would be the rightful claimant to his empire.

 Well, Alexander’s dying wish was to be buried at an oasis in North Africa-- more than 1,000 miles away. So you can just imagine the nearly year-long cat-and-mouse game where all of these generals and nobles vying for the throne continually tried to steal Alexander’s corpse from one another.

There were assassinations, sabotage, secret missions, and more, not to mention full-blown warfare among the various factions which ultimately lasted for decades-- ironically far longer than Alexander reigned.

 In the end, Alexander’s empire broke apart. And one of the victors-- a former general and bodyguard, named Ptolemy-- ended up taking over Egypt and established a ruling dynasty that lasted for centuries.

 Their economic system in the ancient Ptolemaic Kingdom was essentially what we would today call “national capitalism”.

 The bureaucracy was massive. Absolutely massive. Onerous regulations controlled commerce and trade. Nothing was produced that wasn’t in the government’s interest. Caravan routes and waterways were owned by the state, and their use was heavily taxed.

There were taxes on salt, stamp duties on legal documents, taxes on inheritance, and a sales tax of 10%. Plus, the tax on income reached as high as 50%.

Then there were the tariffs.

 The Ptolemaic Kingdom possessed some of the finest technology in the world at that time; their fields were the most productive, and their manufactured goods were among the highest quality on the planet. So, their exports were vast and lucrative… and they traded with markets as far away as China.

 Yet even though Ptolemaic Egypt’s productive technology gave them many competitive advantages over other kingdoms, the state decided at a certain point that it needed to ‘protect’ its domestic industries. So, they imposed heavy tariffs.

 The results were rather predictable. Without the benefit of low-cost imports, prices rose significantly. Greek olive oil, which cost just 21 drachmas in Athens, sold for 52 drachmas in Egypt. Trade dried up, hurting both the domestic and foreign economies alike.

 Trade disputes soon festered into trade wars, which quickly became actual wars.

 The loss of blood and treasure mounted, while rivals (like Carthage, and eventually Rome) became stronger.

 This is the basic principle behind ‘mercantilism’, i.e. the prevailing zero-sum economic philosophy that dominated the world for thousands of years. It’s based on the idea that, in order for me to win, you have to lose. I become wealthier by taking from you.

Adam Smith finally codified why this way of thinking was stupid when he published An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations in the year 1776. Smith, the father of capitalism, realized that wealth and abundance were infinite, and that trade was not a zero-sum game. Both sides could become better off.

 Yesterday-- supposedly ‘Liberation Day’-- constituted a gigantic step backward from capitalism… back to the zero-sum mentality of mercantilism.

I’ve written before that, yes, America has very legitimate gripes with respect to some of its foreign trading partners.

 But it seems naive that these can be solved with across-the-board tariffs on essentially the entire planet.

 If Apple doesn’t want to sell iPhones in China, they can choose to do that on their own. It seems silly to make hundreds of millions of Americans pay higher prices for imported goods to ‘avenge’ Apple’s lost profitability from Chinese import duties.

 There are so many things wrong with this policy… and very few ways in which it could go right.

 In order for tariffs to be a win, the rest of the world would just need to take it in the teeth. No other nation could impose retaliatory tariffs. Foreign businesses would need to cut their prices, and foreign central banks would need to devalue their currencies.

 US consumers would need to be very forgiving and buy the narrative that the price inflation due to tariffs is “transitory”, and that domestic production will soon bring prices back down.

 Most importantly, US businesses will need to immediately begin building new factories in America and ramp up domestic manufacturing.

But this is far easier said than done. New factories will require a host of state and local permits, and that bureaucracy could bog down industrial construction for years.

 Not to mention that many building materials for all of these new factories will need to be imported. There are exemptions in the tariffs for copper, lumber, and steel, but other imported construction materials will be 10% to 50% more expensive now.

 In short, build all of these factories will take a great deal of time and be lot more expensive. Consumers will be expected to pay the price in the meantime.

 One of the biggest questions, of course, is what happens next.

 History tells us that trade disputes often escalate into larger conflicts. And is anyone naive enough to think that the Chinese will simply bow obsequiously?

Perhaps they’ll use their army of hackers to take down parts of the US power grid and launch a mini cyberwar. Or perhaps they’ll cease exporting critical rare earth metals to the US-- so kiss your iPhone goodbye.

 We also could easily see a number of countries (including in Europe) retaliate by canceling visa-free travel for US citizens… and several countries start pulling their funds out of the United States-- either in retaliation or out of fear.

 This might even lead to the US imposing capital controls in order to stop foreigners from moving their money out.

 Bottom line, it could get very messy, very quickly.

To your freedom,  James Hickman   Co-Founder, Schiff Sovereign LLC

https://www.schiffsovereign.com/trends/china-i-see-your-trade-war-and-raise-you-a-cyberwar-152427/?inf_contact_key=8f59fbfeda267ecf87272576cc8252e4611c10abb7b3657801e6f799df81c049

We’re Witnessing the Collapse of a Fake Financial System | Ron Paul

We’re Witnessing the Collapse of a Fake Financial System | Ron Paul

Kitco News:  4-3-2025

NOTE TO OUR VIEWERS: We’re aware that Dr. Ron Paul’s internet connection during this interview was less than ideal. While we made every effort to improve the signal during recording, we believe the message and content of this conversation is too important not to share.

We appreciate your understanding and thank you for watching.

Gold just broke above $3,100 an ounce — its strongest quarter since 1986. Fort Knox audit calls are trending. Inflation continues to hit savers hard.

And Elon Musk’s government downsizing initiative, DOGE, faces sunset amid controversy. In this interview, Dr. Ron Paul, former Congressman, presidential candidate, and founder of the Ron Paul Institute, joins Jeremy Szafron, Anchor at Kitco News to break down what he sees as the collapse of America’s fiat system, the Federal Reserve’s role in “moral bankruptcy,” and why the U.S. dollar may be nearing its breaking point.

Key Topics:

– The gold price surge and what it signals

– Why the Fed is “the head of the hydra”

 – If the U.S. will ever truly audit Fort Knox

– Elon Musk’s DOGE initiative: real reform or political theater?

– The risk of geopolitical flashpoints with Iran and China

 – His warning of liquidation, riots, and systemic reset

– The future of liberty, truth, and sound money

00:00 Introduction

00:58 Gold's Surge and Economic Implications

 05:34 Geopolitical Flashpoints: Iran and China

07:54 Economic Policies and Tariffs

12:07 Doge Experiment and Government Downsizing

 17:19 Transparency and the Federal Reserve

23:42 Conclusion

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fvHlr9oA_E

Keith Weiner: 2025 is the Perfect Storm for Gold

Keith Weiner: 2025 is the Perfect Storm for Gold

Palisades Gold Radio:  4-2-2025

Tom Bodrovics welcomes back Keith Weiner for a discussion on the growing interest in gold as a hedge against economic instability and the risks associated with fiat currencies.

Weiner highlighted that while some investors are drawn to gold due to its rising price momentum, others view it as a long-term insurance against the flaws inherent in government-backed money.

He explained that governments often borrow without a clear plan to repay, leading to an unsustainable debt situation. This has led individuals and countries to seek alternatives like gold, which is seen as a stable store of value unaffected by monetary policy or political whims.

 Weiner also touched on the concept of "zombie credit," where corporations struggle to service their debts, particularly in the face of rising interest rates. The conversation delved into the geopolitical implications of de-dollarization and how countries are increasingly recognizing the limitations of relying solely on the US dollar for trade and reserves.

Despite efforts by governments to create alternative currencies or payment systems, Weiner argued that these initiatives often fail due to a lack of trust and cohesion among nations.

Additionally, Weiner discussed the impact of tariffs on global trade and their effect on debt servicing, noting how such policies can exacerbate financial instability.

He also explored the differences between gold and silver markets, emphasizing that gold is more attractive to institutional investors as it offers a hedge against broader economic risks without the same level of volatility or storage challenges.

Throughout the interview, Weiner emphasized the fundamental drivers behind gold's rise, including the decline in confidence in fiat currencies, the increasing debt levels globally, and the search for safe-haven assets.

He concluded by noting that while gold faces short-term corrections, its long-term bullish trajectory remains intact due to ongoing structural economic issues and the relentless demand from both individual and institutional investors seeking stability amidst uncertainty.

In summary, the interview underscored the role of gold as a critical hedge against an increasingly unstable financial landscape, driven by flawed monetary policies, geopolitical tensions, and the search for safe-haven assets.

Talking Points From This Episode

0:00 - Introduction

0:38 - 2025 Gold Outlook

7:25 - The Dollar Vs. Gold

13:20 - Fiscal Responsibility

 19:46 - Dollar System & Debt

25:58 - Usefulness of Tariffs?

30:25 - Fed & Inflation Fight

35:49 - Rates & Defaults

39:18 - Perfect Storm for Gold?

 40:54 - Gold Vs. Silver Demand

45:00 - Metal Demand & London

51:20 - Gold Spreads & Traders

 53:42 - Gold Bull Outlook

56:14 - Wrap Up

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xT8tKssAZX0

Ariel : Liberation Day, Iraq Tariffs, Historic Milestone

Ariel : Liberation Day, Iraq Tariffs, Historic Milestone

4-3-2025

April 2nd

Today is the day ladies & Gentlemen.

Liberation Day!

What does this truly mean for humanity?

We are no longer being stripped dry of resources with no reciprocal equal return?

We are no longer paying foreign countries with aide that has no residual impact on our investments?

Today we get to stand firm on a future that is not yet here. A solid foundation that is a launch pad to an entire different way of living.

Does it mean that domestic energy and manufacturing surge as resource extraction prioritizes American soil, cutting reliance on foreign exploitation and ending the one-way drain of wealth?

Does it mean that billions once funneled to overseas regimes with no return $50 billion annually, per 2024 estimates redirect to infrastructure, slashing debt and boosting local economies?

Does it mean that tariffs and renegotiated deals force equal exchange exports like tech and agriculture ($300 billion in 2024) now matched by imports that don’t gut American jobs?

Does it mean that a shift from dollar hegemony begins, with gold-backed or blockchain alternatives curbing inflation consumer prices, up 20% since 2020, stabilize for the first time in decades?

We will not have long to find out.

Announcements?

Let’s see what happens.

Iraq will be getting hit with 39% Tariffs.

You know the saying…pressure bust pipes.

Its only a matter of time.

Gina H: Where did you see that? It’s not on the list he gave during the speech.

Suzie-Q: 

Did you know that Iraq’s Central Bank confirmed a historic milestone. It was reported that their foreign reserves now cover more than 100% of the dinar in circulation. Donald Trump put that fire under their a***s. Looks like they are ready to pull the trigger at any moment

Source(s):
https://x.com/Prolotario1/status/1907406357177012230

https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/04/03/ariel-prolotario1-liberation-day-iraq-tariffs-historic-milestone/

News, Rumors and Opinions Thursday 4-3-2025

Note: All intel should be considered as "Rumors" until we receive official announcements ...and “Rates and Dates” could change anytime until we get to the banks/redemption centers.

RV Excerpts from the Restored Republic via a GCR: Update as of Thurs. 3 April 2025

Compiled Thurs. 3 April 2025 12:01 am EST by Judy Byington

Possible Timing, Global Currency Reset:

On Tues. 25 March 2025 President Trump (Allegedly) activated the new gold/asset- backed Global Quantum Financial System (QFS) powered by XRP.

Tues. 25 March 2025 Mr. Pool: Reports from Reno suggest that the first batches of ZIM holders have been escorted under military guard to classified exchange points. https://t.me/Official_MrPool

On Tues. 25 March at 2am EST Tier 3 and T4a Paymasters were (allegedly) made LIQUID. …Mel on BOOM Call https://youtu.be/VSmR4LfsfYs

Thurs. 27 March 2025 Bruce: Bond Holder Paymasters were saying Bond Holders would have access to their accounts last weekend. As of ten am Thurs. 27 March 12% of Bond Holders had gone through. Multiple sources said Tier4b (Us, The Internet Group) would likely get notification to set appointments very soon. The full revaluation will (allegedly) happen after Tues. 1 April 2025. The month of April will see an increase in Social Security payments. On Thurs. 27 March the 800 number was being loaded into the various systems.

On Mon. 31 March 2025 Nesara Gesara was (allegedly) made official throughout the World. …White House Post on Telegram

On Mon. 31 March 2025 a high level contact reported that Tier4a (SKRs, Groups) started exchanging today Mon. 31 March. They anticipated that Tier4b (Us, the Internet Group) would begin exchanges by around Thurs. 3 April.

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Wed. 2 April 2025 Freedom Day: SUMMARY OF PRESIDENT TRUMP’S RECIRPOCAL TARIFF ANNOUNCEMENT: …Capt.Kyle Patriots on Telegram

1. Tariffs imposed on 50+ countries in announcement
2. Tariffs are 50% of rates imposed on US, by country
3. 10% baseline tariff on all countries worldwide
4. 25% auto tariffs on all foreign made vehicles
5. Trump says tariffs will “give the US growth”
6. Trump plans to announce “largest tax cut in US history”
7. Baseline tariffs go into effect April 5th
8. Reciprocal tariffs go into effect April 9th

This is the largest tariff announcement in US history.

Read full post here:  https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/04/03/restored-republic-via-a-gcr-update-as-of-april-3-2025/

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Courtesy of Dinar Guru:  https://www.dinarguru.com/

Frank26  The first week, the beginning of a new quarter of April cannot be wasted again.  If it is, shame on Iraq.  

Frank26    [Iraq boots-on-the-ground report]  FIREFLY:Sammy says after the COM is finished with the [budget] tables then it will go to parliament but by then it's too late for payment to [mess] around with it...He says when the COM is finished, we could very well see Alaq give us the rate before it even goes to parliament.

Walkingstick  You have to understand the Asraflak is a campaign that is going to come out for the next two months.  Inside this campaign there's also a software...entitled 'spend it'.  This is a program that transfers money at an instant speed of time.  It is done through a digital program that delivers instantly a receipt.  'Spend It' is not at 1310 IMO.  Spend It is an American term.  It is not an Arabic term used in banks...It is also a financial literacy program..

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Germany Expresses Concern About Their Gold Held By The Fed

Arcadia Econoics:  4-2-2025

As the reciprocal tariffs are finally set to go into effect, Germany is also expressing concern about the safety of their gold being held by the Fed.

At the same time that even the Trump administration is less than sure about the safety of the US gold. Vince Lanci explains, and shares what to expect with the new tariffs.

 And to find out more, click to watch the video now!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbHUPWw5uxo

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Thursday Morning 4-3-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

CIRCLE FILES FOR INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING, PLANS TO LIST ON NYSE UNDER TICKER SYMBOL “CRCL”

Circle files for an IPO to list on the NYSE under the ticker "CRCL" with a focus on growing stablecoin revenue and market presence.

▪️Circle files for an IPO aiming to list on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “CRCL” with uncertain share pricing.

▪️Circle reports $1.68 billion in revenue for 2024 driven by interest from USDC reserve assets.

▪️Circle’s IPO marks its first attempt at a traditional public listing after a failed SPAC merger.

Circle, the issuer of the USD Coin (USDC), has officially filed an S-1 application with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), signaling its intent to go public. The firm submitted its filing on April 1 which reveals its intention to trade Class A common stock on the New York Stock Exchange under the market identifier “CRCL.”

The filing did not reveal the number of shares Circle plans to offer or the anticipated pricing range. As a result, the company’s valuation remains uncertain. However, it was disclosed that the shares sold by Circle will contribute proceeds directly to the company, while those sold by existing shareholders will not.

Underwriting duties for the IPO are being led by JPMorgan and Citigroup. The firms hold a 30-day right to buy extra shares for any portion exceeding original subscription levels.

Financial Performance and Revenue Growth

Circle’s financial data for 2024 offers a closer look at its performance. The company reported total revenue and reserve income of $1.68 billion, an increase from $1.45 billion in 2023. The bulk of its revenue came from reserve income tied to interest on assets backing the USDC. Operating expenses for the year amounted to $491.7 million, with compensation costs making up the largest portion at $263.4 million.

The net income from continuing operations at Circle reached $156.9 million last year despite a decrease from $271.5 million the previous year. The financial results showed a notable improvement compared to the previous year when Circle recorded a loss of $761.8 million. Adjusted EBITDA financial results for Circle reached $284.9 million in 2024.

Share Structure and Corporate Governance

Circle intends to adopt a three-tier share structure once it goes public. Class A shares, offered in the IPO, will carry one vote per share. Class B shares, which are held by co-founders Jeremy Allaire and Patrick Sean Neville, carry five votes per share. However, these shares are capped at 30% of total voting power. Class C shares carry no voting rights but are convertible under certain conditions.

This structure ensures Circle does not qualify as a “controlled company” under NYSE governance rules following the IPO.

A New Attempt at Going Public

This filing marks Circle’s first attempt at a traditional IPO after its failed merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) in 2021. The company’s shares have no prior public market. The timing of the IPO coincides with growing stablecoin adoption and increasing regulatory interest in digital dollar infrastructure.

Circle’s IPO remains subject to regulatory review and market conditions. More details on the pricing and share volume will be disclosed in an updated filing before the listing date.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CryptoNewsLand

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STABLECOIN TRANSPARENCY BILL PASSES HOUSE COMMITTEE WITH OVERWHELMING VOTE

The STABLE Act has cleared the House Financial Services Committee, even as scrutiny of Trump-linked stablecoin ventures mounts.

The House Financial Services Committee voted to advance stablecoin legislation Wednesday, approving the STABLE Act with 32 members in favor and 17 opposed.

The bill, formally named the Stablecoin Transparency and Accountability for a Better Ledger Economy Act, would create a framework for dollar-denominated stablecoins, including reserve requirements and anti-money laundering standards.

During the markup session's opening remarks, House Financial Services Committee Chair French Hill stressed how blockchain technology "continues to transform the way money moves."

Hill stated that the bill forms part of their "ongoing efforts" to promote "financial innovation through sound digital asset policy. "

The vote proceeded despite controversy over President Donald Trump's family's connections to crypto ventures, including their foray into stablecoins with USD1 through World Liberty Financial.

Early in the session, Democrats raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, suggesting amendments to prevent the president and cabinet members from offering stablecoin products while in office.

Those concerns connect with an earlier statement by Rep. French Hill from Monday that Trump's crypto dealings have made drafting stablecoin legislation "more complicated."

The legislation now faces two more hurdles before becoming law. After the markup, it will be reported out of committee and scheduled for consideration by the House of Representatives.

Both the House and Senate must align their approaches, with key differences in state versus federal regulation and the treatment of foreign issuers such as Tether.

The GENIUS Act, a separate version from the Senate, will be considered alongside it.

Once the STABLE bill passes the House, it will move to the Senate, where it will undergo a similar process of committee consideration before potentially reaching the Senate floor for a vote.

If both chambers approve the bill, any differences between the House and Senate versions would need to be reconciled before the final legislation could be sent to the President for signature or veto.

Wednesday's development marks the committee's second attempt to advance stablecoin legislation. A previous effort in 2023 stalled amid partisan disagreements under the Biden administration.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Decrypt

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“Tidbits From TNT” Thursday Morning 4-3-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Iraq joins TIR transit system

The global TIR transit system became fully operational in Iraq on April 1, 2025.

The International Road Union (IRU) said that Iraq is poised to strengthen its position as a key trade hub in the Middle East, making goods transport more efficient and secure across the country’s borders and beyond. The initiative connects southern and northern Iraq, also providing an efficient trade corridor linking Asia, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, Türkiye and Europe.

Iraq transport minister H.E. Razzaq Muhaibes Al-Saadawi said: “The operationalisation of the TIR system in the Republic of Iraq, in which IRU played a significant role, marks a significant milestone as it places the country on the brink of a new phase of potential investments and interregional trade with our neighbours and other countries in the region.”

The TIR system is expected to leverage Iraq’s strategic location and to increase the efficiency of cross-border trade, and it is forecast to reduce transport time by 80 percent and costs by 38 percent. “For the last two years, we have been working tirelessly on upgrading the road transport infrastructure in cooperation with all relevant parties. We are therefore committed to maximising the advantages of the TIR system in Iraq to boost the transport sector and the national economy,” said Al-Saadawi.

IRU secretary general Umberto de Pretto, commenting on the launch, said: “For almost eight decades, TIR has been driving secure trade. I look forward to seeing the first TIR truck crossing the territory of Iraq.

“Trucks will seamlessly transit the country and proceed along corridors offering a high level of security, opening a new chapter for the country and its role in international trade.”

The integration of TIR’s Electronic Pre-Declaration (TIR-EPD) system with Iraq’s national URUK platform allows the submission of advance cargo information. Throughout a journey, trucks can be closely monitored using GPS tracking, while regular checkpoints ensure cargo and transport security, before it ultimately reaches its final destination safely and on time.  link

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 Tishwash:  ASYCUDA representative to Rudaw: Iraq has completed the automation of 18 border crossings. 

ASYCUDA's representative in Iraq, Nizar Al-Ammari, confirmed that the customs automation system is currently implemented at 18 of the 21 ports, with difficulties in implementing it on the Syrian border despite the port's readiness.

 He noted that two additional ports (one sea and one land) will be operational by the 15th of this month, thus completing the automation of all Iraqi ports.

Al-Amari told Rudaw Media Network on Wednesday (April 2, 2025) that the ASYCUDA system focuses on the three basic customs operations: import, export, and transit, and includes all customs procedures from the moment goods are registered until they leave the customs port. All of these operations have become fully electronic, including payment.

He added that the system has entered its second phase, which includes automating the remaining ports and adding new applications to improve monitoring and maximize trade revenues. The third phase will include the implementation of a single window for foreign trade, which will make all foreign trade operations in Iraq fully automated, eliminating any paper transactions or cash payments.

Al-Amari emphasized that the new system will improve the accuracy of trade statistics in Iraq, helping to develop clear economic and strategic plans, a matter of utmost importance to the international community. He explained that the automation of customs will enhance trade fairness for all traders, as customs laws will be applied uniformly to all.

He pointed out that the system automatically calculates customs duties and regulates import and export permits, reducing the possibility of tampering with customs data. He emphasized that work is also underway to link the Iraqi system with those of neighboring countries, which will enable the identification of incoming goods before they arrive in Iraq, thereby limiting any attempts at manipulation or smuggling.

He stressed that the United Nations respects the sovereignty of states and regions, and that its role in Iraq is limited to providing technical and economic advice without political interference. He noted that the ASYCUDA system was agreed upon between the Iraqi federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government.

Regarding the implementation of ASYCUDA in Kurdistan, Al-Amari pointed to three options: first, the Kurdistan Region would continue to use its current system or a different system with the possibility of linking it to ASYCUDA, provided it complies with international standards. Second, the Kurdistan Region would adopt the ASYCUDA system in full in the region through the Iraqi government, but this would be a complex option due to the linguistic and technical differences between the two systems.

The third option is to develop the ASYCUDA system in Kurdistan independently, linking it to the Iraqi system, as is the case in many countries that adopt unified systems with integration between local and international systems, he said. link

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Tishwash: Al-Sudani's advisor to Rudaw: US tariffs do not include oil and gas, and their impact will be zero.

Mazhar Mohammed Salih, financial and economic advisor to the Iraqi Prime Minister, downplayed the impact of the US decision to impose a 39% tariff on Iraqi products, noting that Iraq has no significant exports to the US market.

Mazhar Mohammed Saleh told Rudaw Media Network on Thursday (April 3, 2025): "The US customs tariffs do not include oil and gas, which means that the impact of this move on Iraq will be zero, because Iraq does not have any other noteworthy goods exported to America that could be subject to customs duties."

Saleh explained that "Iraqi crude oil exports to the United States do not exceed $5 billion annually, and the US market is considered a secondary market for Iraq compared to those of China and India, where approximately 70% of Iraqi oil is exported."

Regarding the import of American goods to Iraq, he noted that "Iraq imports 90% of its goods and civilian needs from Turkey, India, China, the UAE, and some European countries," describing the American market as a "secondary market" compared to Asian and European markets. 

Al-Sudani's advisor said, "The Strategic Framework Agreement signed between Iraq and the United States in 2008 has protected Iraq from shifts in the US's highly protectionist policy, particularly with regard to the imposition of customs duties."

US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday the imposition of 39% tariffs on imports from US trading partners, including Iraq. link

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Mot: ... Its that Time of Year Again!!! ....

Mot: ...... Raise Your Hand ----

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Wednesday Evening 4-2-25

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

US DOLLAR DAYS ARE NUMBERED: 2 ALTERNATIVE ASSETS THAT COULD REPLACE USD

The US dollar is currently standing on the precipice of a radical change, a transformation that intends to strip the USD bare of its reserve currency status. The US dollar has been encountering steep fluctuations in its price, with major non-traditional reserve currencies giving stiff competition to the dollar.

With Trump’s rising trade war narratives, the US dollar has been suffering the most out of the lot, with new alternatives busy challenging the American currency’s dominance at a rapid pace. Will the US dollar be able to survive this new development? Let’s find out.

The World Order Is Changing: Will The USD Be Able To Withstand This Change?

It all started with a new statement made by Larry Fink, the CEO of financial giant BlackRock. Fink, in his annual company letter, shared a new analysis, adding how the US dollar could lose its dominance to Bitcoin. This statement made a pivotal impact on the current financial mindset of the world, where BTC seems to be taking the lead over major world assets.

“If the U.S. doesn’t get its debt under control, if deficits keep ballooning, America risks losing that position to digital assets like Bitcoin.” Fink shared

In addition to this, Deutsche Bank had also echoed a similar stance earlier, adding how US dollar dominance is currently in grave jeopardy.

“We do not write this lightly. But the speed and scale of global shifts are so rapid that this needs to be acknowledged as a possibility. It is hard to overestimate the scale of change taking place in global economic and geopolitical relations in a matter of days.” As stated by George Saravelos, the bank’s global head of FX strategy, in a note to clients.

The Trump administration has also shown a steadfast approach toward expediting crypto proceedings. Trump has recently announced a crypto reserve with coins like BTC, ETH, XRP, ADA, and SOL included in the lot.

The US government is also exploring stablecoins as capable instruments to keep the US dollar’s dominance intact. However, the fact cannot be denied that Bitcoin is now being viewed as digital gold, another safe haven asset that could protect investors from stark USD volatility.

Another Asset Threatens the American Currency’s Dominance

Apart from Bitcoin, the steady rise of gold is also damaging the US dollar’s prestige in the long haul. Central banks all over the world have lately been diversifying their reserves, hoarding gold aggressively in the process. This demand has spiked XAUs value to new highs, threatening the age-old established world order.

“According to the IMF figures not updated for 2024, central banks’ gold holdings have surged by roughly 200 million troy ounces (6,221 tonnes) from 2006 to 1.16 billion troy ounces, driven largely by China and Russia,” Richter wrote. “The increases in China and Russia alone represent nearly 60% of the total increase since 2006. “ In dollar terms, these gold holdings at today’s price amount to $3.65 trillion.” As stated by Wolf Richter, Kitco writer and Wall Street analyst.

With Trump’s decision to announce further tariffs on April 2nd, the world could again witness sharp dollar volatility if the tariff spree escalates the global trade war narrative. With this, the investor sentiment could continue to favor Bitcoin and gold as safe haven assets, detailing the US dollar further in the process.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Watcher Guru

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BRICS: HERE’S HOW TRUMP’S RECIPROCAL TARIFFS WILL IMPACT THE US DOLLAR

Since his return to the White House, US President Donald Trump has sought to end global de-dollarization. In pursuit of that, he has targeted the BRICS alliance with 150% tariffs, as Trump is now set to levy reciprocal tariffs on the entire world, with the US dollar bound to be affected.

Since his election win in late 2024, he has placed a massive target on the BRICS bloc. Specifically, he sought to end any talks of local currency promotion within the global south. However, this move is less about the status of the greenback and more about balancing global trade. So, what impact will it have on the asset?

BRICS & The World to Face Trump Tariffs on US ‘Liberation Day’: How Will the US Dollar Respond?

US President Donald Trump has been hyping up his April 2nd announcement as the country’s ‘Liberation Day.’ The administration is set to unveil a string of tariffs that seek to balance global trade, with nations like Israel and India already announcing an end to their tariffs on US goods to curtail the action.

Now, more than just the BRICS bloc is targeted by these Trump reciprocal tariffs, so the question is, just what will they do to the US dollar? Indeed, the returning president has continuously sought to secure the greenback’s status. Yet, the economic policy is bound to affect it internationally.

Rather surprisingly, the US dollar is expected to stabilize over the coming months, according to a Reuters report. However, it is still set to be affected by “mounting worries about the economic impact of President Donald Trump’s erratic tariff announcements,” strategists told the publication.

“Over one-third of strategies surveyed in the past few days also expressed concern about the greenback’s traditional role in the currency market as a safe haven,” they added. Indeed, the aggressive policy could threaten the currency in a myriad of ways.

Just this week, BlackRock CEO Larry Fink expressed concern regarding the US dollar’s status. Specifically, he noted that Bitcoin’s rise could affect it. Interestingly enough, Trump has been the driving force of that rise. Altogether, the dollar could be subject to increased pressure, proving the BRICS bloc right in its continued de-dollarization efforts.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Watcher Guru

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SUMMARY OF PRESIDENT TRUMP'S RECIRPOCAL TARIFF ANNOUNCEMENT:

1. Tariffs imposed on 50+ countries in announcement

2. Tariffs are 50% of rates imposed on US, by country

3. 10% baseline tariff on all countries worldwide

4. 25% auto tariffs on all foreign made vehicles

5. Trump says tariffs will "give the US growth"

6. Trump plans to announce "largest tax cut in US history"

7. Baseline tariffs go into effect April 5th

8. Reciprocal tariffs go into effect April 9th

This is the largest tariff announcement in US history.

@ Newshounds News™

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The Collapse Is Here: The Final Stage for Fiat | Larry Lepard

The Collapse Is Here: The Final Stage for Fiat | Larry Lepard

Kitco News:  4-2-2025

Is America on the brink of a monetary collapse – and could sound money like gold and Bitcoin be our only way out?

Veteran investor and sound money advocate Lawrence Lepard joins Kitco News anchor Jeremy Szafron to discuss the collapse of the U.S. monetary system, as outlined in his new book, The Big Print:

What Happened to America and How Sound Money Will Fix It. Lepard warns that decades of monetary mismanagement, endless money printing, and artificially low interest rates have pushed the financial system to the edge.

With U.S. debt now exceeding 120% of GDP, Lepard says a sovereign debt crisis is inevitable. “The government is trapped and has to keep printing money,” he tells Kitco. Key Topics:

Why the current monetary system causes wealth inequality

How fiat money “steals from working people”

Why he believes we’re deep into the Fourth Turning

The mechanics of the coming “debt doom loop”

Why Bitcoin is the “most asymmetric bet” he’s seen

Why gold is signaling the failure of fiat

His bold proposal to abolish the Fed and restore sound money

00:00 Introduction

 01:27 The Core Idea of 'The Big Print'

01:42 The Broken Monetary System and Wealth Inequality

03:51 The End Game of the Monetary Experiment

10:15 The Everything Bubble

13:21 Critique of the Federal Reserve

18:06 Inflation and Government Deception

 24:12 The Fourth Turning Theory

 26:29 The Future of Sound Money

27:19 The Debt Doom Loop Explained

30:31 Comparing Post-WWII Growth to Today

32:21 Bitcoin: The Asymmetric Bet

40:40 Gold's Resurgence and Market Dynamics

 43:33 A Vision for Monetary Reform

51:19 Final Thoughts

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAipoqRmDW4

Economist’s “News and Views” 4-2-2025

Economic Breakdown as Stock Market Crashes with Chris Vermeulen

WTFinance:  4-2-2025

On this episode of the WTFinance podcast I had the pleasure of welcoming back Chris Vermeulen.

Chris is the Founder & Chief Market Strategist at The Technical Traders. During our conversation we spoke about his views on the market, risk of a crash, shift of momentum, precious metals, how long do cycles last and more. I hope you enjoy!

0:00 - Introduction

1:00 - Chris’ view on markets

 4:10 - Market crash?

 6:20 - Shift of momentum

9:02 - Precious metals

11:14- How long do cycles last?

15:12 - Picking the bottom

 17:20 - Global crash?

20:45 - Treasuries

22:40 - One message to takeaway from our conversation?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylxpiATuo4o

THE US DOLLAR WILL LOSE ITS WORLD RESERVE CURRENCY STATUS AND IT WILL CHANGE EVERYTHING.

Greg Mannarino:  4-2-2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8qeO0Qx0Do

Bill Holter: COMEX Sees Massive Amount Of Gold Stand For Delivery With 'Reciprocal Tariffs' On Deck

Arcadia Economics:  4-2-2025

The reciprocal tariffs are set to go into effect today, and it's happening at a time when we're continuing to see massive amounts of gold flow from London and stand for delivery in New York.

Of course we've even see the price rallying in response, and in today's show, Bill Holter checks in to talk about the impact of the tariffs, and what he's seeing in the precious metals markets.

To find out more, click to watch the video now!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zS3Au-XMr0

News, Rumors and Opinions Wednesday 4-2-2025

Note: All intel should be considered as "Rumors" until we receive official announcements ...and “Rates and Dates” could change anytime until we get to the banks/redemption centers.

RV Excerpts from the Restored Republic via a GCR: Update as of Wed. 2  April 2025

Compiled Wed. 2 April 2025 12:01 am EST by Judy Byington

“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.”    …President John F. Kennedy

Possible Timing, Global Currency Reset:

Tues. 25 March 2025 Mr. Pool: Reports from Reno suggest that the first batches of ZIM holders have been escorted under military guard to classified exchange points. https://t.me/Official_MrPool

On Tues. 25 March at 2am EST Tier 3 and T4a Paymasters were (allegedly) made LIQUID. …Mel on BOOM Call https://youtu.be/VSmR4LfsfYs

Thurs. 27 March 2025 Bruce: Bond Holder Paymasters were saying Bond Holders would have access to their accounts over the weekend. As of ten am Thurs. 27 March 12% of Bond Holders had gone through. Multiple sources said Tier4b (Us, The Internet Group) would likely get notification to set appointments very soon. The full revaluation will happen after Tues. 1 April 2025. The month of April will see an increase in Social Security payments. On Thurs. 27 March the 800 number was (allegedly) being loaded into the various systems.

On Mon. 31 March 2025 a high level contact reported that Tier4a (SKRs, Groups) started exchanging today Mon. 31 March. They anticipated that Tier4b (Us, the Internet Group) would begin exchanges by around Thurs. 3 April.

On Wed. 2 April 2025 the system starts to click, US Dollar fades away. …White House Post on Telegram PATRIOT ALERT – PRESIDENTIAL STRIKE ORDER ACTIVE: APRIL 2ND – LIBERATION DAY: TRUMP LAUNCHES WAR ON THE T*****R CLASS TO RECLAIM AMERICA’S STOLEN WEALTH – amg-news.com – American Media Group

Trump has declared Wed. 2 April 2015 as Liberation Day when gold/asset-backed monies of Nesara/Gesara would be (allegedly) released to The People of the World. With that, corrupted banks all over the Globe were expected to fall, the Stock Market, collapse; the Federal Reserve with their criminal IRS would be no more.

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Tues. 1 April 2025 Bruce:

Tier4b (us, the Internet Group) should receive notification to set exchange appointments by noon Wed. 2 April.

Social Security increases are supposed to occur this month.

The DOGE payment is supposed to start within the next few days. That comes from savings that Musk has found in fraudulent SS payments.

The Restitution & Reclamation amount should be in your Quantum Account you set up at the Redemption Center

You will move six months of funds from your Quantum Account into a Wells Fargo Account.

Estimate what you need for the first two months to move into your Wells Fargo Account. On the 63rd day you can move whatever you want into the Wells Fargo Account.

Banks will offer financial services that they charge for. Banks and Exchange people will pick up .025% of our exchange for their services (that we don’t pay).

On Wed. 2 April Liberation Day we could get an announcement about Nesara Gesara.

The new asset-backed USTN is(allegedly)  in bank vaults. You should be able to get around $3,000 in cash at your redemption appointment.

Read full post here:  https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/04/02/restored-republic-via-a-gcr-update-as-of-april-2-2025/

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Courtesy of Dinar Guru:  https://www.dinarguru.com/

Militia Man  People around the world should understand Iraq is showing their true colors.  They are going International.  They're going to a digital environment and they're doing it right before our eyes.

Walkingstick   [Lower denomination] Descriptions, the media, billboards, bulletin boards in the CBI banks, ATMs with new software system all of this is going to be brought out within the next two months in this 'Asraflak' software system that will be done...

Frank26   It looks like we're down to the finish line, down to the last few moments of this historical monetary reform.  It's been an amazing ride.  It's been epic.  It's definitely been historical...Once the COM receives the budget financial tables their eyes will witness the new exchange rate.  I pray this is the case because if they come out at 1310 then that budget is an impossibility and everything else Sudani has for the future of Iraq is impossible.

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Will the IQD Exchange Be This Easy? IQD | MEX | ANG | XCG

Edu Matrix:  3-31-2025

Learn everything you need to know about the 2025 Caribbean currency transition from the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG) to the Caribbean guilder (XCG).

This video explains the step-by-step process to exchange your ANG, key deadlines, and where to go for large or small amounts. We also highlight exotic currencies to watch in April, May, and June 2025, including insights into the Mexican peso and the brand-new XCG.

Whether you're living in Curaçao, Sint Maarten, or simply interested in international currency trends, this guide is a must-watch.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ja7aED9tOo

STOLEN Gold in Fort Knox, US Dollar VS. Gold, REVALUATION, Bitcoin Reserve & $37T Debt| Ryan McMaken

Lena Petrova:  4-1-2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onBCbGMLmIg

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Wednesday Morning 4-2-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

CRYPTO-BACKED CANDIDATES WIN FLORIDA SPECIAL ELECTION, HEAD TO U.S. HOUSE

Two Republican candidates supported by the crypto-funded political action committee Fairshake have secured seats in the US House of Representatives following special election in Florida, marking a notable win for the digital asset industry.

Jimmy Patronis emerged victorious in Florida’s 1st Congressional District, defeating Democrat Gay Valimont with 57% of the vote, according to Associated Press data.

Meanwhile, Randy Fine clinched the 6th District seat with 56.7% support, overcoming public school teacher Josh Weil. These elections filled vacancies left by Matt Gaetz and Mike Waltz, respectively—the latter recently taking up a post as White House national security adviser.

GOP Tightens Grip on Long-Held Florida Districts Amid Narrowing Margins

Both districts have traditionally been Republican strongholds for the past three decades, though recent cycles have shown narrowing margins. The latest victories further solidify GOP control in these areas.

Fairshake, a crypto-focused PAC backed by major industry players such as Coinbase, Ripple, and venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz, spent heavily in support of both candidates.

The PAC invested approximately $1.16 million on behalf of Fine and $347,000 to bolster Patronis’s campaign.

Both incoming representatives have openly supported the cryptocurrency industry. In a January 14 post on X (formerly Twitter), Fine declared, “Floridians want crypto innovation!”

Fairshake has played an increasingly influential role in US politics, channeling roughly $170 million into the 2024 election cycle to support candidates aligned with pro-crypto legislation.

With Patronis and Fine entering the House, Republican representation rises to 220 seats, while Democrats hold 213. Two additional seats remain vacant following the recent deaths of Representatives Sylvester Turner (D-TX) and Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) earlier this month.

While the GOP would have retained its House majority regardless of the Florida outcomes, the added support strengthens the likelihood of advancing crypto-related legislation in Congress.

Several bills are already in play, including the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act, which passed the Senate Banking Committee in mid-March with bipartisan support.

Rep. Ro Khanna Says Crypto Legislation Could Pass This Year

At the Digital Assets Summit on March 18, Democratic Representative Ro Khanna expressed optimism that Congress could pass both a stablecoin framework and a broader crypto market structure bill this year.

In addition, Senator Cynthia Lummis recently reintroduced a bill to establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, a move that aligns with ongoing Republican efforts to bolster U.S. leadership in digital asset infrastructure.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  99Bitcoins

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TED CRUZ INTRODUCES FLARE ACT TO REPURPOSE FLARED GAS FOR BITCOIN MINING

The Texas Senator’s Facilitate Lower Atmospheric Released Emissions bill aims to make the state “the number one place for Bitcoin mining.”

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) has introduced a new bill aiming to turn waste energy into electricity for Bitcoin mining.

The Facilitate Lower Atmospheric Released Emissions (FLARE) Act, introduced on March 31, is geared towards making waste energy productive by capturing gas that would otherwise be flared or vented. The plan is to incentivise this capture by offering full expensing for property used to capture that gas.

Cruz specifically pointed to crypto mining as a direct output of this extra energy. In a statement announcing the bill’s introduction, he said that it, “takes advantage of Texas’s vast energy potential, reinforces our position as the home of the Bitcoin industry, and is good for the environment.”

The Senator affirmed his commitment to "making Texas the number one place for Bitcoin mining,” adding that the FLARE Act, “incentivizes entrepreneurs and crypto miners to use natural gas that would otherwise be stranded."

The U.S. focused bill specifically names competitive countries that shall not be allowed to participate in the scheme, including China, Iran, North Korea and Russia.

In a press release from Cruz’s office, Hailey Miller, Director of Government Relations & Public Policy at the Digital Power Network, praised the new bill, saying that Bitcoin miners are “uniquely positioned to help reduce emissions by harnessing stranded and wasted energy sources.”

Miller added that the FLARE Act “ensures that American energy producers have the tools to deploy cutting-edge solutions that make our energy markets more efficient and resilient."

The new Act would specifically, "amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for permanent full expensing for property used to capture gas that would otherwise be flared or vented and to use such gas in value-added products."

This measure should also help to enhance grid resilience while offering new electricity and "other useful outputs."

Cruz’s bill comes after U.S. President Donald Trump pledged to ensure that “all remaining Bitcoin” would be mined in the U.S. as part of his reelection campaign. Bitcoin advocates have long held that mining the cryptocurrency could be a means of harnessing waste energy from natural gas flaring, the practice of burning off excess gas that can’t be economically captured or transported.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Decrypt

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Thank you Dinar Recaps

“Tidbits From TNT” Wednesday Morning 4-2-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Iraq is recovering... an important message from Grand Ayatollah Sistani to the Iraqi people.

Iraq's highest religious authority, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, called on Iraqis on Tuesday to adhere to their national principles and maintain hope for the future.

In a message conveyed by one of his representatives and monitored by the Video News Agency, Ayatollah Sistani said, "The country is moving toward recovery and stability," calling on everyone to "not fear and to cling to hope for a better future."

 According to the letter, Ayatollah Sistani emphasized "the importance of Iraqis adhering to authentic customs, values, and principles, as they are the foundation that preserves the unity and identity of society."

According to the letter, Ayatollah Sistani specifically addressed the Shiite sect, saying, "Shias possess a great cultural heritage, and it is essential that they recognize and preserve it as part of their cultural and historical identity."  link

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Tishwash:  One of them is in Iraq...American "BlackRock" acquires ports in the Middle East.

US asset management firm BlackRock and Italian shipping company MSC have acquired 43 ports owned by Hong Kong-based multinational CK Hucheng Holdings in a deal that will give the US asset manager control of 12 ports in the Middle East, located on strategic coasts stretching from the UAE and Oman to Iraq and Egypt. 

In March 2025, a consortium of BlackRock and MSC reached a $22.8 billion deal to acquire 43 ports owned by CK Huzhen, a Hong Kong-listed company owned by one of Asia's richest men, 96-year-old billionaire Li Ka-shing.

The deal made headlines because it would give BlackRock and MSC control of two ports at each end of the Panama Canal, the strategic waterway that US President Donald Trump has threatened to seize to limit China's influence in the Western Hemisphere.

But the agreement's impact extends beyond Panama to the Middle East, where Arab countries, particularly the Gulf states, are seeking to diversify their economies away from oil. The shipping and ports sectors represent another source of economic diversification for these countries. 

Which ports will BlackRock and MSC acquire in the Middle East?

Under the deal reached between the US-based BlackRock and Italy's MSC Group, the two companies are set to acquire 12 ports in the Middle East, distributed as follows:

Egypt (5): Alexandria - Dekheila - Abu Qir - Ain Sokhna - and the new B100 berth at Alexandria Port

Emirates (4): Ras Al Khaimah - Ajman - Khasab - UAQ

Sultanate of Oman (1): Sohar

Iraq (1): Basra

Saudi Arabia (1): Jazan

link

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Tishwash:  Iraq and the Appeasement Strategy: A Difficult Balance in Times of Pressure

Iraq has recently faced a significant escalation in US economic and financial pressure, primarily targeting dollar transactions and Iranian gas imports, along with repeated demands regarding the future of the Popular Mobilization Forces.

These pressures come as part of Washington's efforts to isolate Iraq economically from Iran, with the aim of strengthening the effectiveness of sanctions imposed on Tehran to force it to reassess its nuclear program.

However, this policy presents Iraq with complex challenges as it attempts to maintain a delicate balance in its foreign relations.

Recent reports indicate that the United States has refused to renew the waivers that allowed Iraq to import gas and electricity from Iran. This was confirmed by Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein on March 19, 2025, who noted that Washington described the decision as "irreversible."

This decision threatens to exacerbate the energy crisis in Iraq, which relies heavily on Iranian gas to power its power plants. Imported gas accounts for approximately 40% of the country's total energy needs, according to estimates from the Iraqi Parliament's Oil and Gas Committee.

On the financial front, the United States is seeking to restrict dollar transactions in Iraq to prevent its smuggling to Iran, which is suffering from massive economic pressures due to sanctions. According to a report, Washington believes that cutting off these financial arteries will directly weaken Tehran, thus strengthening the impact of the sanctions.

But this approach places the Iraqi government in a difficult position, as Iraq holds financial reserves exceeding $100 billion in the United States, making it dependent on Washington's goodwill to access its oil revenues.

Separately, statements by the Iranian ambassador to Baghdad, Mohammed Kazem Al-Sadiq, on March 27, 2025, sparked widespread controversy when he said that US President Donald Trump's letter to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei included a request to dissolve the Popular Mobilization Forces and other armed factions.

However, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani quickly denied any direct US request in this regard, stressing that any decision to dissolve the factions is linked to the end of the international coalition's presence in Iraq.

For his part, MP Alaa Al-Haidari defended the Popular Mobilization Forces Law, considering it an internal matter aimed at honoring those who sacrificed for the nation.

The Iraqi government is adopting a strategy of appeasement in its foreign policy, attempting to maintain a balance between the United States and Iran, two of its historical allies. However, this approach faces increasing challenges, especially with mounting US pressure to end economic and military coordination with Tehran. Analysts believe that Washington also aims to "undermine the unity of the arenas," the strategy Iran uses to connect its fronts in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen.

Economically, Iraq is paying the price for its heavy reliance on Iran for energy. Iraqi lawmakers have called for exploring alternatives, such as Qatar and Turkey, for gas imports. However, this step requires huge investments and a long time frame, both of which may be unavailable given the current crisis. Conversely, experts believe that economic decoupling between Baghdad and Tehran could increase pressure on Iran, but it could also cause internal unrest in Iraq, especially if the electricity crisis worsens. link

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Mot........ Beeeeeee Careful Out there!!!!

Mot: . Goes to Show Ya -- That Folks will ---- ssiiggghhhh