Iraq News Posted by Tishwash at TNT 5-20-2026

TNT:

Tishwash: Al-Alaq: No US embargo on Iraqi funds; meeting expected with the Federal Reserve and the Treasury Department

Central Bank Governor Ali Al-Alaq confirmed that there is no intention to devalue the Iraqi dinar against the US dollar.

Speaking to a group of journalists and experts, Al-Alaq said, "We will help the government overcome the repercussions of any potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz by discounting treasury bonds and ensuring the payment of salaries."

He indicated that "the banking reform file is receiving direct attention from the Prime Minister. A meeting is expected in the coming days with the Federal Reserve and the US Treasury Department."

Al-Alaq continued, "We invest our cash reserves in several countries, and there are no US sanctions on Iraqi funds."

He added, "Most banks have reached the stage of mergers or liquidation, and only one or two banks remain that are unable to continue operating."  link

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Tishwash:  The Minister of Finance discusses with the Speaker of Parliament files related to financial and administrative reform.

Finance Minister Faleh al-Sari acknowledged the growing financial challenges facing Iraq in light of changes related to energy markets and declining oil exports.

This is accompanied by a decline in revenues, which requires concerted efforts and support for measures that will secure the state’s financial obligations.

This came during his meeting with the Speaker of Parliament, Hebat al-Halbousi, where a number of files related to financial and administrative reform were discussed.

Al-Sari stressed the need to enact legislation and amend a number of laws, in order to support the paths of financial reform.

For his part, Al-Halbousi expressed his support for the government's efforts in dealing with the complex financial situation the country is going through.  link

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Tishwash:   Advisor to the Association of Banks: Proposes to the government an institutional and structural reorganization of the management of finance, oil, investment and development

On the occasion of the new government assuming the leadership of Iraq in extremely complex economic and financial circumstances, and suffering from a clear liquidity crisis, the primary cause of which is the reliance on oil as a primary source of the general budget and the inability of the Ministry of Oil to secure the necessary export channels to continue exporting after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

In an interview with "Economy News," Samir Al-Nassiri, advisor to the Association of Iraqi Private Banks, suggested to the government, as it begins its first hundred days in office, that it should restructure and reorganize its economic files and sectors in finance, oil, investment and development by setting strategic goals to overcome the effects of the economic and financial crisis and absorb its repercussions in the short and long term.

Al-Nassiri called for strengthening the Financial Stability Council with advisors with expertise in fiscal policy, monetary policy, strategic planning and crisis management, and establishing an operations room to manage the oil sector, and in particular the management of the affairs of the Ministry of Oil, headed by the Prime Minister and with the membership of executive representatives from the Ministries of Finance and the Central Bank and specialized advisors, and following up on the procedures of the Ministry of Oil and SOMO, which are considered responsible for their inability to seek to secure external export channels to continue and sustain our oil exports after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which greatly harmed our national economy.

He pointed to the necessity of establishing the Supreme Council for Investment and Development, chaired by the Prime Minister and with the membership of the Ministries of Finance, Planning, Housing and Reconstruction, the Central Bank, the Head of the National Investment Commission, a representative of the Private Sector Development Council, and the Head of the Contractors Union.

The Council would be responsible for drawing up the investment map for the country in all economic sectors and involving the private sector in financial financing and implementation processes with the participation of private capital and with sovereign government guarantees and protection of laws that reassure the private sector, with the aim of achieving a real transition from the old economy to a market economy.  link

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Tishwash:  Political agreement will facilitate the passage of the oil and gas bill

 Political agreement will facilitate the passage of the oil and gas bill

 The Iraqi parliament will soon put the oil and gas bill on its agenda, an Iraqi lawmaker said: political understanding and agreement has been reached between most of the parliamentary factions The passage of the bill is considered a nerve of stability, as it is a political and economic issue.

 The problems are being solved

"The oil and gas law will be submitted to parliament soon because it is a preliminary agreement between them," Adel Mahlawi, a member of the Taqadoom faction in the House of Representatives, told Sabah newspaper There are political parties.

 "Prime Minister Ali Zaydi has expressed his readiness to complete the bill because it is very important and has an economic and service dimension," he said.

"Some of the bills still need national agreement, including the oil and gas bill, but the oil and gas bill gives the provinces a wider opportunity to manage their own affairs and organize it," he said Relationship between the federal government and oil-producing provinces.

Delays in oil exports will hurt Iraq

Meanwhile, Ola al-Nashi, a member of the Oil and Gas Committee in the Iraqi parliament, said: "We have sent an official letter to the Ministry of Oil in order to take advantage of all these opportunities The move comes after changes in the Arabian Gulf that have affected ship movements There were oil fields.

 "The oil issue is the backbone of Iraq's economy. Any delay in oil exports or disruption of export lines will directly affect the state's gross revenue," he said.

 Export statistics during the conflict

According to the Iraqi Oil Marketing Company (SOMO), about 21 Iraqi oil ships carrying 27 million 678 thousand barrels of oil were disrupted in the Gulf due to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz In March and April, eight ships completed the loading and transit of 9 million 765 thousand 797 barrels of oil He had carried it.

 Three other ships carrying 4 million 886 thousand 786 barrels of oil were able to pass during the crisis.

 Finally, Al-Nashi stressed that parliament will continue to follow the measures of the Ministry of Oil and SOMO to protect Iraqi oil exports and prevent the loss of economic opportunities, in order to support the budget and provide it Financial entitlements of the country.

He called on the oil ministry to take this development seriously, as it is a political and economic issue and not just a technical issue.  link

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Tishwash:  An economist explains the factors controlling the dollar exchange rate in the parallel market.

Economic expert Salah Nouri confirmed on Tuesday that the exchange rate of the dollar in the parallel market is subject to several internal and external factors, most notably supply and demand and liquidity conditions in the market.

Nouri said, “The exchange rate of the dollar in the parallel market depends on supply and demand, and this equation is affected by multiple internal and external factors.” He explained that “the demand for dollars by some traders who do not deal with the external transfer system of the Central Bank of Iraq is affected by the rise in global commodity prices and weak purchasing power.”

He added that "the supply of dollars in the parallel market is limited, and is often linked to a commercial tendency among those who possess the currency for the purpose of selling or speculation," noting that "the liquidity crisis and fears of paying the salaries of employees and retirees also affect the movement of the market and their ability to purchase imported goods."

Nouri explained that "changing the dollar exchange rate is one of the tasks of the Central Bank of Iraq, in accordance with its monetary policy and in coordination with the Ministry of Finance, which is responsible for fiscal policy," noting that "this file has not been fully clarified within the new ministerial formation."  link

Coffee with MarkZ, joined by Zester. 05/20/2026 (1 to1?)

Coffee with MarkZ, joined by Zester. 05/20/2026

Some highlights by PDK-Not verbatim

MarkZ Disclaimer: Please consider everything on this call as my opinion. People who take notes do not catch everything and its best to watch the video so that you get everything in context.  Be sure to consult a professional for any financial decisions

MZ: Something cool ….a piece done on Iraqi news about the dinar today. Quote: “ I have met with the federal reserve and I told them about pegging the Iraqi dinar into US dollar, meaning 1:1 and they agreed that it is a smart idea and they will do that in 3 months. I don’t know when he met with them so we could know when the 3 months expire. ”

MZ:  One dinar equals one dollar and they are saying they are doing it in 3 months. And this meeting coupld have occurred weeks ago…..We do not know.

MZ: IMO This is beyond exciting news. The full interview on the “From the State” program from Iraq. Al-Hadath channel hosted by Dr. Qusay Shafiq with guests Mazen Al-Saeed and Mazan Al-Ahsiqr.

Watch on X:  https://x.com/i/status/2056854594919993596‍ ‍

MZ: An Iraqi podcaster shared this and some very interesting things using live footage from Iraqi TV.  This is being discussed on Iraqi Television by Iraqi officials. I have screen shots.

MZ: An interesting translation says the first step for the Iraqi economy is printing a new currency. 1 dinar equal to 1 dollar. Nobody panic. (Mark shows screenshots as he explains)

MZ: A dollar is amazing…take the worst case scenario and meeting happened yesterday and its 3 months before the dinar is 1 to1. That would be in August.

MZ: Remember Mr. C talked about this on Friday that we are expected to change the values (RV or RI) then make our appointments and make our exchanges before it goes 1 to 1. So after we exchange it will go 1 to 1. But, we already got a higher rate before then.

MZ: We were also told way back when that the RV (revaluation) would occur before the rate goes 1 to 1. I think this is the best news ever and it was watched by millions on Iraqi TV…and using google translators that showed us what was being said.

MZ: So this is absolutely something to be excited about. I still think it could go this month……but imo anytime before July 4th. I would not be surprised to see something over this long 3 day weekend.

Member: So, this rv can happen any day within three months period !!!

MZ: IMO our worst case timeline is wihin 3 months and 1 to 1. …..Many have spoken all around the world….including Donald Trump that currencies all need to go to parity. In order to do that they need to reset the values and then go to parity or 1 to 1.

 Markz's linktree https://linktr.ee/theMarkZshow

Zester joins the stream today with a crypto digital money segment. Please listen to the replay for his information and opinions

THE CONTENT IN THIS PODCAST IS FOR GENERAL & EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY&NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE ANY PROFESSIONAL, FINANCIAL OR LEGAL ADVICE. PLEASE CONSIDER EVERYTHING DISCUSSED IN MARKZ’S OPINION ONLY

https://rumble.com/user/theoriginalmarkz

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Mod:  MarkZ "Back To Basics" Pre-Recorded Call" for Newbies 10-19-2022 )https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37oILmAlptM

MARKZ DAILY LINKS: https://theoriginalmarkz.com/home/

Note from PDK: Please listen to the replay for all the details and entire stream….I do not transcribe political opinions, medical opinions or many guests on this stream……just RV/currency related topics.

THANK YOU FOR JOINING.  HAVE A BLESSED DAY.  SEE YOU IN THE MORNING FOR COFFEE @ 10:00 AM EST ~ UNLESS BREAKING NEWS HAPPENS!   FOR UPDATES ON MARK’S PODCAST GO TO: https://t.me/+b3hYhYlhKM1hYzcx

Youtube:     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=merHlMaGHp4   

News, Rumors and Opinions Wednesday 5-20-2026

Ariel:  1:1 Would be the Start

5-20-2026

How Many Times Have I Told You All That 1:1 Would Be The Start?

Ask yourself if that is what they come out the gate with what could it potentially float to?

And we know 3 months is a bureaucratic timeline. Meaning you can expect it sooner based on Iran (75%) complete. And the CLARITY Act.

MajeedKSA: @MazinAlEshaiker  on Iraq TV yesterday Said “ I have met with the federal reserve and I told them about pegging the Iraqi dinar into US dollar, meaning 1:1 and they agreed that it is a smart idea and they will do that in 3 months” I don’t know when he met with them so we can know when the 3 months would expire

Watch on X:  https://x.com/i/status/2056854594919993596‍ ‍https://twitter.com/i/status/2056854594919993596
Source(s):
• https://x.com/Prolotario1/status/2056870700212748673

https://dinarchronicles.com/2026/05/20/prolotario-11-would-be-the-start/

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

Jeff  The whole reason the central bank has not allowed Iraq to revalue is simply because of the political corruption.  The political corruption has been the delay of the rate change this entire time.  The #1 delay.  That's the reason...That's why the banking reforms are coming forward after the rate changes...They have 150+ laws. The HCL is one of the 150.  The new 2026 budget is one of the 150 laws.  All of these 150+ laws are coming forward after the rate changes...

Stephen  They're being as transparent as I've ever seen before.  Iraq has never been a truthful country.  They have always lied about what they're doing.  You know, one week the USA is saying we're withholding dollars from them.  Iraq says, no, that's not true.  And then the following day it comes out, oh, it's true...But now the USA is directly involved.  The Trump administration is directly involved and controlling what they do.  It's nothing short of exciting.  If you're a dinar investor then I'm hoping You are excited too.

Thom   Question: "IF the value is "low" (1:1 or anything < ~$3), would you go ahead & exchange, or do you see any benefit in waiting a short period?  I don't want to be anxious & exchange low then it increases in days."   Thom:  It depends. The CBI and other Arab nations have a history of making an announcement of a new rate and then later that day it is effective immediately.   Iraq has already done this a handful of times. So, when IQD goes, I am going the first chance I get.  [Dinar Guru Note:  Consult your financial and asset protection advisors to determine the ideal exchange strategy for your unique circumstances.]

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THE BIGGEST WEALTH TRANSFER IN HISTORY

GoldSwitzerland by Von Greyerz and Investor Talk:  5-20-2026

Why does Egon believe paper assets could lose 90–95% against gold?

 In this interview, Egon von Greyerz and Jan Kneist (of Investor Talk) discuss the growing gap between financial assets and real assets like gold and silver.

Egon explains why weak state finances and inflated stock markets could bring a big shift back into physical assets (something he believes has already started).

He also shares why he sees gold as long-term wealth preservation rather than speculation.

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Wednesday Morning 5-20-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Global Debt Fears, Currency Pressure, and Energy Shocks Push Financial System Toward a New Stress Point

Surging bond yields, weakening emerging market currencies, and persistent oil volatility are intensifying concerns about the stability of the global financial system.

 Overview

Today’s financial headlines reveal a growing convergence of pressures impacting the global economy at once: rising sovereign debt costs, inflation fears, currency instability, and geopolitical disruption tied to energy markets.

Global bond markets are experiencing another wave of selling as investors increasingly fear that prolonged oil shocks and geopolitical instability could force central banks to keep interest rates elevated much longer than expected.

At the same time, emerging market currencies — particularly among major BRICS economies — are coming under severe strain as capital flows move back toward the U.S. dollar and Treasury markets.

The developments are reinforcing broader concerns surrounding the long-term sustainability of the current debt-based monetary system and accelerating discussions around a potential global financial reset.

Key Developments

1. Global Bond Yields Continue Surging Across Major Economies

Government bond yields climbed again today across the United States, Europe, Japan, and the United Kingdom as investors demanded higher returns to offset inflation and geopolitical risks.

The U.S. 30-year Treasury yield recently surged above 5.1%, its highest level since before the 2008 financial crisis, while Japanese and European yields also reached multi-decade highs.

Markets are increasingly worried that rising oil prices and supply disruptions tied to the Iran conflict could trigger another prolonged inflation cycle, limiting central banks’ ability to cut rates.

Analysts warned that higher borrowing costs could create enormous strain for governments already carrying historically high debt loads.

2. BRICS and Emerging Market Currencies Face Mounting Pressure

The Indian rupee hit a new record low near 97 per U.S. dollar today as oil prices and rising Treasury yields intensified stress on emerging market currencies.

Indonesia’s rupiah also remains under heavy pressure despite central bank intervention measures.

Investors are increasingly pulling capital toward U.S. dollar assets as rising yields and geopolitical instability reduce appetite for emerging market risk.

The situation highlights a growing contradiction in the global system:
while BRICS nations continue discussing de-dollarization strategies, many developing economies remain highly vulnerable to dollar strength, oil pricing, and external debt pressures.

3. Oil Markets Remain the Central Driver of Financial Instability

Oil prices stayed elevated near $110 per barrel amid continued uncertainty surrounding Iran and the Strait of Hormuz.

The prolonged disruption of one of the world’s most important energy corridors is now feeding directly into:

• inflation expectations,

• bond market volatility,

• currency weakness,

• and global trade uncertainty.

Financial institutions warned that energy market instability is now becoming deeply embedded into broader macroeconomic conditions rather than remaining a temporary geopolitical shock.

4. Investors Increasingly Fear a Global Spending Crunch

Several financial analysts warned today that rising yields may eventually force governments, corporations, and consumers to reduce spending significantly.

Higher rates increase the cost of:

• government borrowing,

• mortgages,

• infrastructure financing,

• corporate expansion,

• and consumer credit.

This creates the risk of a broader slowdown while inflation remains elevated — a scenario many economists associate with stagflation.

Markets are also beginning to question whether central banks can continue supporting debt-heavy economies without damaging currency credibility or reigniting inflation.

Why It Matters

Today’s developments reinforce that the world economy is entering a period of structural financial strain rather than temporary market volatility.

The combination of:

• elevated debt,

• higher-for-longer interest rates,

• geopolitical fragmentation,

• commodity disruptions,

• and weakening confidence in fiat systems

is creating pressure points throughout the global financial architecture.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For foreign currency holders and global reset observers, these developments are important because they highlight:

• the growing fragility of sovereign debt markets,

• the continued dominance of energy in global monetary systems,

• the vulnerability of emerging market currencies,

• and the increasing shift toward multipolar economic structures.

Central banks may increasingly be forced to balance inflation control against debt sustainability and economic stability — a balancing act becoming more difficult by the month.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Sovereign Debt Stress

Rising bond yields are making debt servicing increasingly expensive worldwide, threatening long-term fiscal stability.

• Pillar 2: Energy-Driven Financial Realignment

Oil and shipping disruptions tied to the Strait of Hormuz are once again proving how closely global finance depends on energy security.

• Pillar 3: Pressure on Emerging Market Currencies

Currency instability across BRICS and emerging economies may accelerate efforts to diversify reserves and payment systems away from traditional Western channels.

• Pillar 4: Central Bank Credibility Under Pressure

Markets are increasingly testing whether central banks can maintain financial stability without triggering either runaway inflation or severe economic contraction.

The global system is showing signs of strain across debt, energy, currency, and trade simultaneously — conditions that historically precede major financial realignments.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters — "Rupee hits record low near 97/USD on oil, US Treasury yield strain"

• Reuters — "As bond yields surge, investors grow wary of a global spending crunch"

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 🌱 A Message to Our Currency Holders🌱

If you’ve been holding foreign currency for many years, you were not foolish.

You were not wrong to believe the global financial system would change.

What failed was not your patience — it was the information you were given.

For years, dates, rumors, and personalities replaced facts, structure, and proof. “This week” predictions created cycles of hope and disappointment that were never based on how currencies actually change.

That is not your failure.

Our mission here is different:    • No dates • No rates • No hype • No gurus

Instead, we focus on:

• Verifiable developments • Institutional evidence

• Global financial structure • Where countries actually sit in the process

Currency value changes only come after sovereignty, trade, banking, settlement systems, and fiscal coordination are in place. History and institutions confirm this sequence.

You will see silence. You will see denials. That is not delay — that is discipline.

Protect your identity. Organize your documents.    Verify everything.

Never hand your discernment to anyone who cannot show proof.

You deserve truth — not timelines.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™

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Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

RV Facts with Proof Links Link

RV Updates Proof links - Facts Link

Follow the Gold/Silver Rate COMEX

Follow Fast Facts

Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Website

Thank you Dinar Recaps

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Morning 5-20-26

The Judiciary Overturns The Decision To Impose (Service Fees) On Telecommunications Companies.

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad   The Supreme Judicial Council announced on Wednesday the issuance of a decision to overturn the Communications and Media Commission's decision to impose fees on mobile phone companies under the guise of "service charges."

A statement from the judiciary, received by "Al-Eqtisad News," indicated that "the Supreme Judicial Council issued a decision to overturn the Communications and Media Commission's decision to impose fees on mobile phone companies under the guise of 'service charges,' following a review of the appeal submitted by the authorized director of the Atheer Telecommunications Company's branch in Iraq."

Judge Iyad Mohsen Dhamad, head of the Appeals Board responsible for reviewing appeals against decisions of the Communications and Media Commission, explained, according to the statement, that "the 20% fee imposed on recharge cards and electronic applications is in reality a sales tax, not a service charge."

He emphasized that "the imposition of taxes and fees is the exclusive prerogative of the legislative authority, according to Article 28/First of the Iraqi Constitution, which prohibits their imposition except by law."

Judge Dhamad pointed out that "the Media and Communications Commission based its decision on a directive issued by the Council of Ministers during the caretaker period," stressing that "a caretaker government does not have the legal authority to issue decisions that impose new financial burdens on citizens."

He affirmed that "the contested decision lacked a proper legal basis, which necessitated its annulment and the cancellation of its legal effects. The decision was issued finally and unanimously in accordance with the provisions of Section (6/8) of Order (65) of 2004." https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69309

Advisor To The Association Of Banks: Proposes To The Government An Institutional And Structural Reorganization Of The Management Of Finance, Oil, Investment And Development

Money and Business     Economy News – Baghdad   On the occasion of the new government assuming the leadership of Iraq in extremely complex economic and financial circumstances, and suffering from a clear liquidity crisis, the primary cause of which is the reliance on oil as a primary source of the general budget and the inability of the Ministry of Oil to secure the necessary export channels to continue exporting after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

In an interview with "Economy News," Samir Al-Nassiri, advisor to the Association of Iraqi Private Banks, suggested to the government, as it begins its first hundred days in office, that it should restructure and reorganize its economic files and sectors in finance, oil, investment and development by setting strategic goals to overcome the effects of the economic and financial crisis and absorb its repercussions in the short and long term.

Al-Nassiri called for strengthening the Financial Stability Council with advisors with expertise in fiscal policy, monetary policy, strategic planning and crisis management, and establishing an operations room to manage the oil sector, and in particular the management of the affairs of the Ministry of Oil, headed by the Prime Minister and with the membership of executive representatives from the Ministries of Finance and the Central Bank and specialized advisors, and following up on the procedures of the Ministry of Oil and SOMO, which are considered responsible for their inability to seek to secure external export channels to continue and sustain our oil exports after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which greatly harmed our national economy.

He pointed to the necessity of establishing the Supreme Council for Investment and Development, chaired by the Prime Minister and with the membership of the Ministries of Finance, Planning, Housing and Reconstruction, the Central Bank, the Head of the National Investment Commission, a representative of the Private Sector Development Council, and the Head of the Contractors Union.

The Council would be responsible for drawing up the investment map for the country in all economic sectors and involving the private sector in financial financing and implementation processes with the participation of private capital and with sovereign government guarantees and protection of laws that reassure the private sector, with the aim of achieving a real transition from the old economy to a market economy. https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69302

The Prime Minister And The Turkish Ambassador Emphasize Mutual Cooperation In Various Fields

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad   Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi and the Turkish Ambassador to Iraq, Anil Bora Inan, affirmed their commitment to mutual cooperation and its enhancement across various fields during a meeting held on Wednesday.

The Prime Minister's Media Office stated in a press release received by "Al-Eqtisad News" that "Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi received the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Iraq, Anil Bora Inan."

The meeting addressed ways to strengthen bilateral relations and emphasized mutual cooperation and its advancement in various sectors, particularly in oil exports, water management development, the strategic development road project, and security coordination, all in service of the shared interests of both countries.

According to the statement, the meeting also reviewed "efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions in the region and stressed the importance of supporting negotiations between the United States and Iran, adopting diplomatic solutions and dialogue to ensure the sustainability of security and stability in the region and the world."https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69317  

Parliamentary Legal Committee: Proceeding with amending the traffic law to address the doubling of fines

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad   The parliamentary legal committee revealed the possibility of addressing previous traffic fines through the Cabinet's authority to write off government debts, while confirming the continuation of amending the traffic law to address the doubling of fines and the mechanism for calculating traffic camera violations. 

Member of the Parliamentary Legal Committee, Muhammad Jassim Al-Khafaji, told the official newspaper, as reported by “Al-Eqtisad News”, that traffic fines have become a real harm to many citizens, especially since a large number of them own vehicles and have accumulated large sums of money,” indicating that “the committee is proceeding with amending the traffic law to address the doubling of the fine and a number of problems related to this file.”

Al-Khafaji explained that previous fines, i.e., those incurred before the amendment was approved, cannot be addressed by new legislation except with the government's approval. He pointed out that the clear solution lies in the Cabinet's authority to extinguish these debts, since the fines owed by the citizen are considered a government debt, and the government can request their cancellation or waiver.

He added that the amendment will include obligating the General Traffic Directorate and the Ministry of Interior to address the issue of fines resulting from traffic cameras, although it is a technical detail, but the large number of complaints necessitates a clear legal solution for it.

Al-Khafaji described the amount of fines announced by the Traffic Directorate, which amounted to 162 billion dinars during the past year, as arbitrary and unfair to citizens, stressing that the anticipated amendment to the Traffic Law must balance between applying the law and protecting citizens from unfair fines. https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69304

Al-Zidi Directs Follow-Up On The File Of Increasing The Volume Of Oil Exports And Diversifying Export Outlets.

energy   Economy News – Baghdad   Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi directed on Wednesday that efforts be made to increase the volume of oil exports and diversify export outlets.

His media office stated in a statement received by “Al-Eqtisad News” that “Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi paid a visit today, Wednesday, to the headquarters of the Ministry of Oil in Baghdad, during which he chaired a meeting of the ministry’s senior staff, in the presence of the Ministers of Oil and Foreign Affairs and the Director of the Prime Minister’s Office.”

The statement added that "Al-Zidi listened to a briefing presented by the Minister of Oil on the progress of work on the ministry's projects, especially regarding procedures for addressing the crisis of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the cessation of oil exports. He also reviewed the ongoing associated gas projects and highlighted the most prominent challenges facing the progress of work on them."

He added that "the meeting addressed the issue of oil exports and finding diverse export outlets, the mechanism for implementing Cabinet decisions in this regard, as well as discussing the procedures of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding following up on agreements concluded with a number of neighboring countries to export oil by land."

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69314

Jon Dowling, John Michael Chambers & Rob Cunningham: Wealth Transfer Updates MAY 2026

Jon Dowling, John Michael Chambers & Rob Cunningham: Wealth Transfer Updates MAY 2026

5-18-2026

The global financial landscape is currently undergoing a period of profound transformation. As traditional systems face unprecedented scrutiny, new discussions are emerging regarding the potential for a more transparent, technology-driven economic future.

 A recent, insightful discussion hosted by John Michael, featuring experts John Dowling and Rob, delves into these complex shifts, exploring how emerging technologies and geopolitical realignments are shaping the next chapter of global commerce.

At the heart of this conversation is the potential transition toward a new monetary order.

 The experts explore the idea of moving away from historical fiscal models toward a system anchored by sound money and enhanced by blockchain technology.

By leveraging decentralized ledgers—specifically highlighting the efficiency of the XRP ledger—the discussion suggests a future where peer-to-peer transactions become more direct, potentially reducing the need for traditional intermediaries and the associated fees that have long characterized global finance.

The dialogue also touches upon significant structural changes within government financial institutions. The contributors discuss potential shifts in leadership and legislative initiatives, such as the Clarity Act, which reflect a growing focus on accountability and transparency.

There is a strong emphasis on the objective of creating a more streamlined economic environment where federal tax structures are re-evaluated, and fiscal resources are directed more effectively toward public utility and sovereign prosperity.

Geopolitically, the experts point toward an era characterized by increased international cooperation. By moving away from historical friction and toward a more interoperable, asset-backed digital infrastructure, the discussion posits that nations may find a new common ground.

While the transition may involve periods of market adjustment, the participants remain optimistic about the move toward a system backed by tangible assets like gold and silver, combined with the verifiable nature of blockchain technology.

Ultimately, this shift represents a move toward greater individual sovereignty and financial clarity. As these historic changes unfold, the experts encourage viewers to prioritize financial literacy and take an active role in understanding decentralized asset custody.

 For those interested in a deeper dive into these economic theories and the potential for a new era of global finance, the full commentary from Jon Dowling offers a comprehensive look at the road ahead. Staying informed is the first step toward navigating the evolving global economy with confidence.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zq0yvvwK08k

https://dinarchronicles.com/2026/05/19/jon-dowling-welcome-to-the-new-monetary-system/

FRANK26….5-19-26….SUPER BANK

‍KTFA

Tuesday Night Video

FRANK26….5-19-26….SUPER BANK

This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only

Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie and Omar in Iraq and guests

Playback Number: 605-313-5163   PIN: 156996#

What Frank’s suit color’s mean…. FRANKS SUIT COLORS FOR CC'S..... WHITE = NEW INFO…. SILVER = INTEL FROZEN…. RED= HIGH ALERT… PURPLE=GUEST WITH US…. BLUE = AIR FORCE…. BLACK = GROUND/FF’S…. GREEN= MR OR FAB 4 ... GOLD = CHANGE… ORANGE=IMPLEMENTATION

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vLgdGb6W84

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Evening 5-19-2026

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

Bond Markets, Oil Shocks, and Global Debt Fears Signal Mounting Pressure on the Financial System

Rising Treasury yields, volatile energy markets, and geopolitical instability are forcing governments and central banks into a new phase of financial stress management.

 Overview

Global markets are showing signs of deepening structural strain as bond yields surge, oil prices remain elevated, and investors increasingly question the long-term stability of sovereign debt markets.

Today’s developments point toward a growing convergence of risks involving energy security, inflation, government borrowing costs, and geopolitical fragmentation — all of which are key themes tied to discussions surrounding a potential long-term global financial reset.

The latest catalyst comes from the ongoing tensions surrounding Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, which continue disrupting energy flows and shaking confidence across financial markets.

Key Developments

1. Global Bond Markets Are Flashing Warning Signals

Bond yields across major economies climbed sharply today, with the U.S. 30-year Treasury yield reaching levels not seen since before the 2008 financial crisis.

Investors are increasingly worried that persistent inflation — fueled by higher energy costs and geopolitical instability — could force central banks to maintain higher interest rates for much longer than expected.

The bond selloff is now affecting markets globally, from the United States to Japan and Europe, increasing borrowing costs for governments already carrying historically high debt loads.

Analysts also warned that the arrival of incoming Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh could reduce expectations of future emergency stimulus programs or quantitative easing support.

2. Oil Prices and Hormuz Tensions Continue Reshaping Markets

Oil prices remained elevated near $110 per barrel as uncertainty surrounding Iran and the Strait of Hormuz continues to disrupt shipping and energy supply expectations.

Even temporary disruptions in Hormuz carry major implications because the corridor handles roughly one-fifth of global oil and LNG shipments.

Markets reacted sharply to reports that President Trump delayed a planned strike on Iran while negotiations continue, creating volatility across commodities, currencies, and equities.

The situation highlights how modern financial markets are becoming increasingly tied to geopolitical chokepoints and strategic energy corridors.

3. Inflation Fears Are Reigniting Across the Global Economy

Higher oil prices are now feeding renewed concerns over global inflation just as many economies were hoping price pressures would stabilize.

Rising energy costs threaten transportation, manufacturing, agriculture, and consumer pricing worldwide. Investors are increasingly pricing in the possibility of additional interest rate hikes instead of future cuts.

This dynamic is particularly dangerous because governments are already struggling under enormous debt burdens, making higher borrowing costs difficult to sustain long term.

Several analysts warned that markets are beginning to fear a possible stagflationary environment — where inflation remains elevated while economic growth weakens.

4. Financial Fragmentation and the Shift Toward Multipolar Systems Continue

Today’s market turmoil also reflects broader global realignment trends.

Countries are increasingly reassessing dependence on traditional Western financial systems as geopolitical tensions intensify. Rising commodity nationalism, energy competition, BRICS expansion efforts, and alternative trade settlement discussions all continue accelerating behind the scenes.

The combination of debt instability, geopolitical conflict, supply chain restructuring, and monetary uncertainty is reinforcing discussions about the future architecture of the global financial system.

Why It Matters

The current environment is no longer just about isolated market volatility. It reflects a much broader transition involving:

• Record sovereign debt levels

• Higher-for-longer interest rates

• Geopolitical fragmentation

• Energy market weaponization

• Pressure on fiat currencies

• Growing distrust in centralized financial systems

These pressures are forcing governments, central banks, and multinational alliances to reconsider how global trade, debt, reserves, and monetary systems will function in the future.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For foreign currency holders and global reset watchers, today’s developments reinforce several long-term trends:

• Debt-based financial systems are under increasing stress

• Oil and energy remain central to monetary power

• Bond markets are becoming less stable

• Multipolar financial structures continue gaining momentum

• Central banks may face shrinking flexibility moving forward

As borrowing costs rise globally, nations may increasingly seek alternative settlement systems, commodity-backed arrangements, regional alliances, and reserve diversification strategies.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Debt System Stress

The surge in bond yields signals growing concern about whether governments can sustainably finance massive debt obligations in a high-rate environment.

• Pillar 2: Energy and Geopolitical Realignment

The Strait of Hormuz crisis demonstrates how energy supply chains are becoming directly tied to global monetary and financial stability.

• Pillar 3: Multipolar Financial Transition

Ongoing geopolitical fragmentation continues accelerating discussions around de-dollarization, alternative payment systems, and regional financial blocs.

• Pillar 4: Central Bank Credibility

Markets are increasingly testing whether central banks can contain inflation without destabilizing debt markets or triggering broader economic slowdowns.

This is not just another market correction — it is a stress test for the entire global financial architecture.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters — "Stocks fall as US bond yields rise, oil eases after latest Iran war headlines"

• Reuters — "Warsh's arrival leaves long bonds without a safety net"

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How To Lose Billions Of Dollars: Trust The US Government

How To Lose Billions Of Dollars: Trust The US Government

Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black / Sovereign Man) May 19, 2026

America was at the top of the world in 1955.  World War II had been over for ten years. Soldiers had come home to GI Bill mortgages in brand-new suburbs. Detroit was building cars faster than anywhere else on the planet.

And the economy was booming— in fact that year a milkshake-machine salesman named Ray Kroc had just franchised his first McDonald's on a roadside in Illinois.

Half a world away, in a country still rebuilding from the rubble of that war, a scrappy little Japanese company called Honda was selling cheap motorcycles to people who couldn't afford cars.

That year, 1955, was the last year that Honda lost money. Starting in 1956, and for seven decades after that, the company became one of the most consistently profitable carmakers on the planet.

Until now.

A few days ago, Honda announced billions in losses for the first time since Eisenhower was President. And the reason isn't because of a major scandal, financial crisis, or moonshot bet on flying cars.

Honda's executives had simply made a sensible business decision to believe the US government.

When Joe Biden promised that America was going all-electric, Honda took him at his word. That promise has now cost the company roughly $10 billion in write downs and impairments and pushed Honda into its first annual loss in decades.

Biden's plan was carrot-and-stick. The carrot was part of the poorly named Inflation Reduction Act in the form of a $7,500 federal tax credit on every new EV sold.

The stick came from sweeping new regulations requiring roughly two-thirds of new vehicles sold in the US to be electric by 2032. Either automakers built EVs, or they got regulated out of the American market.

In the background, Biden squeezed the oil supply to make driving a gasoline car more expensive.

He canceled the Keystone XL pipeline on his first day in office, paused new federal oil and gas leases a week later, and in his final days withdrew more than 625 million acres of US offshore waters from any future drilling.

To automakers, this EV push looked like a once-in-a-generation opportunity; Washington was writing checks, mandating the switch, and selling the whole thing as permanent. So, Honda, along with Ford, GM, and Stellantis, built the EV factories.

Consumers didn't cooperate. Less than 10% of new cars sold in America were electric.

Then the rules changed.

When Trump took office, his administration’s EPA sensibly rolled back the emissions rule. Congress (rightly) killed the $7,500 tax credit. And automakers’ EV math collapsed overnight.

Ford swallowed a $17.4 billion hit on its EV business. Over at Stellantis, the parent of Jeep, Ram, and Chrysler, a $29.7 billion writedown produced the first annual loss in the company's history.

GM has chalked up another $7 billion of EV-related losses. Add it up and you get roughly $64 billion of real capital that was incinerated in less than a year.

Automakers weren't designing cars for customers; they were designing cars for subsidies and regulations. When the subsidies and regulations went away, the profits went with them.

And it isn't Honda's fault either. They made the call on the best information available, which was supposedly a "permanent" change in how the US government rewarded and punished automakers.

It's sad, really. Biden cooked up a stupid policy, Trump reversed it, and the companies lost billions.

What it teaches every CEO in Tokyo, Seoul, Munich, and Detroit is to think twice before trusting Washington again. That's the exact wrong message for a country that desperately needs continued capital investment from abroad.

Reagan saw all of this coming forty years ago. "Government's view of the economy," he said in 1986, "could be summed up in a few short phrases: if it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it."

Four decades later, that's still the entire playbook.

There's only one path out of America's debt trap, and it's less government. Cut the rules, cut the spending, and let markets— not Senate committee chairs and EPA administrators— decide where capital flows.

GDP has to grow faster than the borrowing, and that won't happen if Washington keeps torching $60 billion of industrial capital every time it changes its mind about which industry to bless.

They never learn. Which is exactly why it makes so much sense to have a Plan B.

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

How to lose billions of dollars: trust the US government | Schiff Sovereign

MilitiaMan & CREW IRAQ DINAR UPDATE-Iraq's Reforms: Strong Momentum - New Economic Vision of the Central Bank

MilitiaMan & CREW IRAQ DINAR UPDATE-Iraq's Reforms: Strong Momentum - New Economic Vision of the Central Bank

5-18-2026

The Crew:  Samson, PompeyPeter, Petra, Daytrader, Sunkissed, GIGI and Militia Man

No drama. No intrigue. No songs and dances. Just straight, factual news that I read and interpret to the best of my ability after being an avid Dinar investor and insanely obsessed Dinarian for over 15 years.

Follow MM on X == https://x.com/Slashn

Be sure to listen to full video for all the news……..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwlEYpT5wpg

Rob Cunningham: The New Financial Order

Rob Cunningham: The New Financial Order

5-19-2026

They mocked the internet before it became civilization’s nervous system.

They mocked Bitcoin before it became digital scarcity.

They mock XRP because they still think money is the product.

Money was never the product.

• Settlement is the product.
• Liquidity is the product.
• Interoperability is the product.
• Trustless verification is the product.

The world is not tokenizing memes.

It is tokenizing EVERYTHING.

And when every asset, currency, commodity, security, invoice, bond and payment moves across interoperable XRPL rails in real time, one question matters:

What neutral asset bridges value between all of them without counterparty risk?

That is the entire game.

Most people are trading candles.

A few are studying infrastructure.

Apocalypse simply means ‘the unveiling.’

And the unveiling is this:

The old world ran on opaque debt.

The new world runs on transparent liquidity.

XRP for “all the money.”

Source(s):
• https://x.com/KuwlShow/status/2056418002136899599

https://dinarchronicles.com/2026/05/19/rob-cunningham-the-new-financial-order/

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Afternoon 5-19-2026

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

Global Financial Reset Watch: Debt Stress, Energy Realignment, and BRICS Expansion Accelerate Systemic Shifts

Growing sovereign debt concerns, energy market restructuring, and expanding multipolar alliances are reshaping the global financial landscape as governments prepare for a more fragmented economic order.

 Overview

Today’s global financial environment continues to show signs of deep structural transition. While markets remain functional, underlying pressures involving sovereign debt, energy security, de-dollarization, and geopolitical realignment are intensifying simultaneously.

The combination of higher bond yields, persistent inflation concerns, and the expansion of alternative economic blocs such as BRICS is forcing nations to rethink reserve management, trade settlements, and long-term financial dependencies.

At the same time, global leaders are increasingly tying economic policy to national security and supply chain resilience, signaling that the world economy is moving away from the hyper-globalized model that dominated previous decades.

Key Developments

1. Global Bond Markets Face Renewed Pressure

Finance ministers and central bank officials from the G7 gathered in Paris today to discuss growing instability in sovereign debt markets as rising energy costs and inflation concerns continue pressuring bond yields worldwide.

Officials warned that higher oil and shipping costs linked to ongoing Middle East tensions may prevent central banks from cutting interest rates aggressively. This creates added strain for heavily indebted economies already managing elevated borrowing costs.

Countries such as Japan and several European economies are especially vulnerable as debt servicing expenses continue climbing.

2. Structural Global Imbalances Are Becoming Harder to Ignore

G7 officials also focused heavily on what they described as “structural imbalances” in the global economy.

Concerns include:

• Excessive debt accumulation

• Uneven global consumption patterns

• Weak industrial investment in Western economies

• Persistent trade asymmetries

• Fragile supply chains

These imbalances are increasingly viewed as long-term systemic risks rather than temporary market distortions.

The discussions reflect growing awareness that the existing financial system may require major restructuring over the coming decade.

3. Energy Markets Continue Moving Toward a Multipolar Framework

Simultaneously, Gulf energy dynamics are undergoing major transformation as producers increasingly prioritize long-term regional alignment over traditional Western-centric supply models.

Analysts note that global gas and LNG markets are becoming more rigid due to:

• Infrastructure limitations

• Long-term contracts

• Geopolitical fragmentation

• Domestic energy demand pressures

• Strategic competition between the United States, Qatar, Russia, and China

This “new Gulf gas order” suggests future energy flows may become increasingly tied to political blocs and strategic partnerships rather than open-market flexibility.

4. BRICS and Alternative Financial Systems Continue Expanding

As Western economies wrestle with debt and inflation pressures, BRICS nations continue accelerating efforts to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar.

Countries are increasingly:

• Expanding local currency settlement systems

• Increasing gold reserves

• Diversifying trade mechanisms

• Developing alternative payment frameworks

• Building regional energy partnerships outside traditional Western systems

These developments do not yet replace the dollar-based system, but they continue laying the groundwork for a more multipolar financial architecture.

Why It Matters

The world economy is no longer dealing with isolated financial shocks. Instead, multiple structural changes are unfolding simultaneously across:

• Debt markets

• Energy systems

• Trade routes

• Currency reserves

• Payment infrastructure

• Supply chains

This convergence is one reason discussions surrounding a potential global financial reset continue gaining attention among economists, investors, and geopolitical analysts.

The transition appears gradual rather than sudden, but the direction increasingly points toward a more fragmented and regionally aligned economic order.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For foreign currency holders and precious metals investors, today’s developments reinforce several key trends:

• Gold accumulation by central banks continues rising

• Nations are reducing overdependence on the U.S. dollar

• Energy trade is becoming more politically aligned

• Alternative settlement systems are expanding

• Sovereign debt risks remain elevated globally

These trends could eventually influence reserve currency dynamics, commodity pricing, and long-term purchasing power across multiple fiat currencies.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Sovereign Debt Pressure

Rising borrowing costs and unstable bond markets are increasing pressure on governments already carrying historically high debt levels.

• Pillar 2: Multipolar Economic Transition

The expansion of BRICS, regional trade systems, and alternative payment mechanisms signals continued movement away from a singular Western-led financial order.

• Pillar 3: Energy as Strategic Currency

Control over energy infrastructure, LNG flows, and shipping routes is becoming increasingly central to geopolitical and financial power.

• Pillar 4: Reserve Diversification

Central banks are steadily diversifying reserves into gold and non-dollar assets as protection against geopolitical and fiscal uncertainty.

Conclusion

Today’s developments highlight a world economy entering a period of managed transformation rather than outright collapse. Governments and financial institutions are increasingly adapting to a future where economic power is more distributed, supply chains are more regionalized, and financial systems are more politically driven.

The emerging environment suggests the next decade may be defined not by a single financial event, but by a series of interconnected shifts that gradually reshape the global monetary order.

This is not just economics — it is the restructuring of global financial power happening in real time.

Seeds of Wisdom Team

Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Modern Diplomacy – G7 Finance Chiefs Confront Bond Market Turmoil and Global Economic Imbalances

• Modern Diplomacy – Rigid Margins, Rising Pressures: The New Gulf Gas Order

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive  

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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Afternoon 5-19-26

Iraq’s new government faces constitutional challenge over confidence vote

2026-05-19    Shafaq News- Erbil/ Baghdad    Iraq’s newly approved government is facing a constitutional challenge after nominees from the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the State of Law Coalition (SLC) filed complaints contesting last week’s parliamentary confidence session, KDP parliamentary bloc head Shakhawan Abdullah said on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters in Erbil, Abdullah clarified that the complaints concern the mechanism through which parliament rejected several ministerial nominees, adding that documents and recordings showed “procedural violations” during the voting process. The objections argue that the session violated Article 76 of Iraq’s constitution and breached parliament’s internal bylaws due to what Abdullah called a failure to manage proceedings “with complete neutrality.”

“The final decision now rests with the Federal Supreme Court, and we are waiting for its ruling.”

Iraq’s parliament voted on May 14 to approve Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi’s government program and 14 cabinet ministers, while delaying a vote on the remaining nine portfolios until after the Islamic holiday Eid Al-Adha amid continuing disputes over cabinet allocations.

Earlier negotiations over ministerial nominations and portfolio distribution saw blocs, including SLC, accuse rivals of obstructing nominees, while factions aligned with former Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani criticized “unfair” cabinet allocations.

Read more: Ali Al-Zaidi sworn in as Iraq's prime minister with a program already failed

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Iraq-s-new-government-faces-constitutional-challenge-over-confidence-vote

USD/IQD slips at close in Baghdad and Erbil

2026-05-19 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   The US dollar closed Tuesday’s trading lower in Iraq, hovering around 154,000 dinars per 100 dollars.

According to Shafaq News market survey, the dollar traded in Baghdad's Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya exchanges at 153,650 dinars per 100 dollars, down from the morning session’s 153,850 dinars.

In the Iraqi capital, exchange shops sold the dollar at 154,000 dinars and bought it at 153,000 dinars, while in Erbil, selling prices stood at 153,450 dinars and buying prices at 153,350 dinars.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/USD-IQD-slips-at-close-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil

Monte Carlo: A Saudi Message Reached The Iraqi Foreign Ministry Containing A Threat To Sever Diplomatic Relations Between The Two Countries

 latest news   Tuesday,  May 19, 2026  Baghdad – One News    Monte Carlo International reported that in the first serious challenge to the new Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, Iranian-backed factions threatened to attack Saudi Arabia if it launched raids inside Iraqi territory.

 She indicated that a Saudi message had reached the Iraqi Foreign Ministry that included a threat to sever diplomatic relations between the two countries, in response to what the Saudi message described as terrorist attacks coming from Iraq targeting Saudi infrastructure.

 She added that, as an indication of the impact of the political tension between Baghdad and Riyadh, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made a phone call to the new Iraqi Prime Minister, merely offering congratulations, but al-Zaidi sent assurances to the Saudi authorities that he would not allow attacks against Saudi Arabia to be launched from Iraqi territory.    https://1news-iq.net/مونت-كارلو-رسالة-سعودية-وصلت-للخارجية/

Iraqi Basrah Crude Outperforms Global Market With 2.6% Gain

2026-05-19 / Shafaq News- Basrah    Iraq’s Basrah crude rose more than 2.6% on Tuesday, bucking declines in global oil markets driven by volatility linked to geopolitical tensions and shifting energy demand expectations. 

Basrah Medium crude rose to $111.10 per barrel, up 2.61%, while Basrah Heavy crude climbed to $109.00 per barrel, gaining 2.67%. 

Brent crude futures fell $2.21, or 1.97%, to $109.89 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate declined $1.30, or 1.20%, to $107.36. 

Among other Arab benchmarks, Saudi Arabia’s Arab Light crude rose 2.49% to $119.10 per barrel, while Kuwait Export crude reached $124.63 per barrel. https://shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraqi-Basrah-crude-outperforms-global-market-with-2-6-gain

A Leader In The Coordination Committee: Leaders Of Political Blocs Are Aware Of The Importance Of Dealing Flexibly With Washington's Pressure To Avoid Sanctions

 latest news  Tuesday,  May 19, 2026   Baghdad – One News    A leader in the "Coordination Framework" said that "the leaders of the Shiite political forces are aware of the importance of dealing flexibly with American pressures in order to spare Iraq the risks of economic and financial sanctions."

He explained that Iraq would not be able to withstand the American sanctions, so the steps taken by the Al-Zaidi government regarding the issue of factions and restricting weapons to the state must be supported.

He added that Al-Zaidi pledged in his first speech after his government was granted confidence to reform the security system by restricting weapons to the state, enhancing the capabilities of the security forces, and consolidating the citizen’s confidence in democracy.   https://1news-iq.net/قيادي-بالتنسيقي-قادة-الكتل-السياسية-م/

Middle East Forum: Al-Zaidi Succeeded In Postponing The Confrontation With The Factions, But He Has Not Proven That He Fulfilled His Promises To Washington

Baghdad – One News       5/19/2026   The Middle East Forum reported that many Iraqis were expecting a change in US President Donald Trump’s policy towards pro-Iranian factions, given the escalating US pressure on Baghdad in recent times.

 The forum pointed out that placing the Popular Mobilization Forces at the heart of the government program reflects the continued Iranian influence within Iraqi state institutions, despite talk of reforms and restructuring the security file.

 He added that Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has so far succeeded in postponing the confrontation with the armed factions, but he has not yet proven his ability to implement the pledges he reportedly made to Washington regarding reducing the influence of armed groups and resetting the security file. 

The forum also believed that the US administration was required to demonstrate real leverage to force Baghdad to fulfill its promises, if it wanted to bring about a real change in the balance of power within Iraq.

 https://1news-iq.net/منتدى-الشرق-الأوسط-الزيدي-نجح-في-تأجيل/

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Baghdad: Institutions Ready To Cooperate Over Saudi Drone Incident

2026-05-19   Shafaq News- Baghdad    The Iraqi government condemned on Tuesday drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, while affirming that Iraqi military authorities had found no evidence that Iraqi airspace was used in the alleged operation last week.

Spokesperson Bassem Al-Awadi stated that Iraq remains committed to supporting efforts aimed at reducing tensions and preventing such incidents regardless of their source, adding that Iraqi institutions are prepared to cooperate and verify relevant details.

On May 18, Iraq’s Foreign Ministry announced an investigation into how the aircraft crossed Iraqi territory undetected after Saudi Arabia said it had intercepted and destroyed three drones that entered the Kingdom’s airspace.

Saudi Arabia also summoned Iraq’s ambassador on April 12 to protest attacks allegedly launched from Iraqi territory.

Since the start of the US-Israeli war on Iran, several Iraqi armed factions have claimed responsibility for drone and missile attacks targeting sites inside and outside Iraq, including military facilities and strategic locations linked to US and Israeli interests.    https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Baghdad-Institutions-ready-to-cooperate-over-Saudi-drone-incident

Tehran Warns It Is Ready To Confront Any US Strike

2026-05-19 Shafaq News- Tehran   Tehran is “fully prepared” to confront any US military attack, after President Donald Trump temporarily delayed a planned strike on Iran, a senior Iranian official said on Tuesday.

Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said that the US was simultaneously speaking about diplomacy while threatening military action at any moment, arguing that Washington was presenting threats as “an opportunity for peace.”

On May 18, Trump announced the postponement of a strike on Iran following requests from the leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, adding that “serious negotiations” were underway with Tehran. However, he instructed the US military “to be prepared to go forward with a full, large-scale assault of Iran, on a moment’s notice, in the event that an acceptable Deal is not reached.”

Meanwhile, Israel’s Channel 12 reported that Israeli assessments indicate Trump has decided to attack Iran and that implementation is “only a matter of time.”

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Middle-East/Tehran-warns-it-is-ready-to-confront-any-US-strike