Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Monday Afternoon 4-13-26

IEA Declares Worst Energy Crisis In History

2026-04-13   Shafaq News- Middle East   The International Energy Agency (IEA) on Monday called for urgent demand reduction measures as its executive director warned that the Iran war had led to the worst global energy disruption in history, with more than 80 oil and gas facilities across the Middle East damaged and the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed.   

"The only real solution is ensuring the free flow of oil and gas through Hormuz," IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said in a statement, adding that the agency had asked member countries to identify rapid ways to cut energy consumption, with some already responding.

On strategic petroleum reserves, Birol cautioned that releasing stockpiles would not resolve the underlying crisis. "Given the scale of production shutdowns and the Hormuz closure, releasing oil is not a solution -it is a painkiller," he said, adding that the IEA nonetheless remained prepared to authorize a coordinated release if conditions deteriorated further.

The US naval blockade of Hormuz took effect today with more than 15 warships deployed. President Trump warned that any vessel approaching the blockade zone would be "immediately destroyed," while the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, Iran's armed forces central command, warned that no port in the Gulf or the Sea of Oman would be safe if Iran's ports were targeted.

The blockade follows six weeks of conflict triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran, bringing shipping through the strait to a near-complete halt and threatening a fragile ceasefire.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/IEA-declares-worst-energy-crisis-in-history

Read more: Iraq's energy vulnerability: When a petro-state has no buffer

Iraq Oil Revenue Drops To $1.95B In March

2026-04-   Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq, OPEC’s second-largest oil producer, generated more than $1.95 billion in oil export revenues in March 2026, down from $6.814 billion the previous month, the Oil Ministry said on Monday.

Citing data from the State Organization for Marketing of Oil (SOMO), the ministry reported total crude exports, including condensates, at 18.6 million barrels during the month.

Exports from central and southern oilfields accounted for the largest share at 14.56 million barrels, while shipments from the Kurdistan Region through Turkiye’s Ceyhan port stood at 1.27 million barrels, alongside 2.77 million barrels exported from Kirkuk via the same route.  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-oil-revenue-drops-to-1-95B-in-March

Dollar Rises In Baghdad And Erbil Markets

2026-04-13   Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   The US dollar opened Monday’s trading higher in Iraq, hovering around 154,000 dinars per 100 dollars.

According to a Shafaq News market survey, the dollar traded in Baghdad's Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya exchanges at 154,150 dinars per 100 dollars, up from the previous session’s 153,600 dinars.

In the Iraqi capital, exchange shops sold the dollar at 154,500 dinars and bought it at 153,500 dinars, while in Erbil, selling prices stood at 154,300 dinars and buying prices at 154,200 dinars.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Dollar-rises-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil-markets-0

Gold Prices Fall In Baghdad And Erbil Markets

2026-04-13  Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   On Monday, gold prices hovered around 1.03 million IQD per mithqal in Baghdad and Erbil markets, according to a survey by Shafaq News Agency.

Gold prices on Baghdad's Al-Nahr Street recorded a selling price of 1,025,000 IQD per mithqal (equivalent to five grams) for 21-carat gold, including Gulf, Turkish, and European varieties, with a buying price of 1,026,000 IQD. The same gold had sold for 1,030,000 IQD on Sunday.

The selling price for 21-carat Iraqi gold stood at 995,000 IQD, with a buying price of 991,000 IQD.

In jewelry stores, the selling price per mithqal of 21-carat Gulf gold ranged between 1,025,000 and 1,035,000 IQD, while Iraqi gold sold for between 995,000 and 1,005,000 IQD.

In Erbil, 22-carat gold was sold at 1,071,000 IQD per mithqal, 21-carat gold at 1,023,000 IQD, and 18-carat gold at 876,000 IQD.https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Gold-prices-fall-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil-markets-7-6-2

USD/IQD Exchange Rates Decrease In Baghdad And Erbil

2026-04-13  Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   The US dollar closure Monday’s trading higher in Iraq, nearing 154,000 dinars per 100 dollars, according to a survey by Shafaq News Agency.

The dollar traded in Baghdad's Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya exchanges at 153,900 dinars per 100 dollars, up from the morning session’s 154,150.

In the Iraqi capital, exchange shops sold the dollar at 154,500 dinars and bought it at 153,500 dinars, while in Erbil, selling prices stood at 154,050 dinars per 100 dollars and buying prices at 153,900 dinars.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/USD-IQD-exchange-rates-decrease-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil

IMO, UN Warn Of Global Food Disruption As Hormuz Shipping Collapses

2026-04-13   Shafaq News- Middle East   No state has the right to block innocent passage through international straits, International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez Velasco affirmed Monday, as the United Nations warned that a drop of more than 90% in tanker traffic through Hormuz is threatening food supplies across Asia and Africa.

Dominguez added that IMO was in talks with Iran and Oman to evacuate crew members from ships stranded in the waterway and coordinating with Gulf states to supply food to those on board.

The UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said the near-total halt in shipping posed a direct threat to agricultural production and global food security. The UN Office for Project Services said intensive meetings had been held in New York over the past two weeks to develop a mechanism for the safe passage of fertilizer shipments through Hormuz, with Executive Director Jorge Moreira da Silva leading efforts to protect countries dependent on those supplies.

The US naval blockade of Hormuz took effect today with more than 15 warships deployed. President Trump warned that any vessel approaching the blockade zone would be "immediately destroyed," while the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, Iran's armed forces central command, warned that no port in the Gulf or the Sea of Oman would be safe if Iran's ports were targeted.

The blockade follows six weeks of conflict triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran, bringing shipping through the strait to a near-complete halt and threatening a fragile ceasefire.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Middle-East/UN-Hormuz-crisis-heading-toward-global-food-catastrophe

Coordination Framework Postpones Meeting Amid Internal Disagreements

2026-04-13   Shafaq News- Baghdad  The Coordination Framework's meeting, scheduled for Monday at the residence of Ammar al-Hakim, leader of the Al-Hikma (Wisdom) National Movement, has been postponed after several Framework leaders boycotted the session, a political source told Shafaq News.

The postponement will hold until attendance of all leadership is confirmed, to settle the prime ministerial file within the constitutional 15-day window following the election of the president.

Amer al-Fayez, head of the Tasmeem Alliance, had revealed that the Framework was intended to discuss nine prime ministerial candidates at Monday's meeting.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Coordination-Framework-postpones-meeting-amid-internal-disagreements

Read More: Iraq Government Formation: The Constitution that cannot enforce its own deadlines

Ayatollah Al-Sistani's Authority Rejects Role In Iraq PM Selection

2026-04-13 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq’s Shiite clerical authority in Najaf, led by Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani, reaffirmed it will not intervene in selecting a prime minister candidate, a source told Shafaq News on Monday, as Shiite political forces move to choose a premier.

The authority has “repeatedly conveyed” this stance to Coordination Framework (CF) leaders and closed its doors to politicians, signaling it will not engage in consultations over top posts.

The CF was set to meet today to discuss nine candidates for prime minister, including a potential compromise figure; however, another source confirmed that the talks has been postponed due to disagreements among its members

Under Article 76 of the constitution, the largest parliamentary bloc has 15 days to nominate a prime minister following the election of a president, a step that formally begins the government formation process. Parliament elected Nizar Amedi on Saturday, completing the constitutional requirement before assigning the largest bloc to form a government.

Read more: Iraq's premiership battle has already begun

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Ayatollah-Al-Sistani-s-authority-rejects-role-in-Iraq-PM-selection

Taboola the same on the Bottom of Posts

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Monday Evening 4-13-26

Good Evening Dinar Recaps

Oil Surge, Growth Downgrades, and Policy Limits Signal Deepening Systemic Strain

Energy shocks are spreading into inflation, global growth, and financial stability as pressure builds across the system

Overview

Recent developments show the global financial landscape shifting into broad-based stress, as the energy crisis intensifies and begins to directly impact growth forecasts, monetary policy, and global markets.

Oil prices have surged back above $100 per barrel, while global institutions warn that the economic impact is already “baked in” and likely to persist.

This marks a transition from initial shock to sustained economic pressure, with consequences extending into the core structure of the global financial system.

Key Developments

1. Oil Prices Surge Back Above $100, Reigniting Inflation Risk
Energy markets have reacted sharply to escalating tensions, pushing oil prices back into triple-digit territory.

• Brent crude rising above $100 per barrel

• Markets reversing earlier optimism from ceasefire headlines

• Renewed fears of supply disruption and prolonged instability

Why it matters: Energy costs are a primary driver of global inflation, and sustained elevation feeds directly into higher living costs and economic slowdown.

2. IMF Signals Economic Impact Is Already Embedded
Global financial leaders indicate that the damage from the crisis is already working through the system.

• Disrupted supply chains affecting global pricing structures

• Delays and infrastructure strain creating lasting economic drag

• Recovery dependent on restoration of stable energy flows

Why it matters: This confirms the situation is no longer avoidable—it is now a managed economic outcome with long-term implications.

3. Global Growth Outlook Weakening
Institutions are signaling downward pressure on global growth expectations.

• Emerging markets expected to face greater strain

• Rising fuel costs increasing economic burden worldwide

• Governments beginning to respond with support measures

Why it matters: Slower growth combined with high inflation raises the risk of stagflation, a difficult environment for both policymakers and markets.

4. Central Banks Face Tightening Constraints
Policymakers are increasingly limited in how they can respond to current conditions.

• Energy-driven inflation is less responsive to rate policy

• Risk of secondary inflation effects spreading

• Markets adjusting expectations for longer periods of tight conditions

Why it matters: Central banks are losing flexibility, signaling a shift toward a system where external shocks outweigh policy control.

Why It Matters

These developments point to a broader transition:

• Energy shocks driving economic conditions globally

• Growth slowing while inflation remains elevated

• Policy tools becoming less effective

• Financial systems adjusting to sustained pressure

This reflects a move away from stability supported by policy toward structural stress shaped by external forces.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

• Persistent inflation may erode purchasing power across currencies

• Diverging economic conditions can trigger currency volatility and repricing

• Emerging markets face heightened risk of capital outflows

• Resource-linked economies and assets may gain relative strength

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Energy-Driven Economic Realignment

The global economy is increasingly influenced by energy access and pricing, shifting power toward resource control.

• Pillar 2: Policy Constraint & Stagflation Risk

With inflation elevated and growth slowing, central banks face a structural limitation that reduces the effectiveness of traditional tools.

Closing Perspective

The crisis has moved beyond geopolitics—it is now embedded in the global economy.

When oil prices surge, growth weakens, and policy tools lose effectiveness simultaneously, the result is not temporary disruption—it is systemic transition.

This is not just an energy shock — it’s a turning point for the global financial system.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Oil prices top $100 a barrel after talks fail and U.S. blockade announced – The Guardian

• IMF says shock from U.S.–Iran war is already “baked” into global economy – Business Insider

~~~~~~~~~~

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“Iraq News” Posted by Tishwash at TNT Monday 4-13-2026

TNT:

Tishwash:  America announces a complete naval blockade of Iranian ports

The United Kingdom welcomed the election of the President of the Republic and affirmed its commitment to strengthening cooperation with Iraq.

The Presidency of the Republic stated in a press release that "the United Kingdom expressed its welcome for the election of His Excellency President Nizar Amidi as President of the Republic of Iraq, affirming its aspiration for a new phase of joint cooperation."

It added that "the UK Minister for the Middle East at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Hamish Faulkner, affirmed his country's desire to continue working with the new Iraqi leadership in a way that contributes to strengthening bilateral relations and supporting stability and development in Iraq."  link

Tishwash:  The coordinating body will meet tomorrow to decide on the prime ministerial candidate.

 Badr Organization leader Mu’in Al-Kadhimi revealed that a crucial meeting of the coordination framework will be held tomorrow, Monday, to decide on the prime minister candidate if he obtains the approval of two-thirds of the framework’s forces.

Al-Kadhimi said, during his appearance on the “On the Ruler” program broadcast by Al-Furat satellite channel, that “the coordination framework will hold a meeting tomorrow, Monday, to discuss the file of the prime minister candidate,” indicating that “the candidate will be assigned if he obtains the approval of two-thirds of the members of the framework.”

He added that "the election of the President of the Republic by the House of Representatives represents an important step after nearly 100 days since the convening of its first session," stressing that "there is no room for interpretations or delays in deciding on the nomination of the Prime Minister."

Al-Kadhimi pointed out that "the names previously put forward for the premiership have expired, and the coordination framework is now faced with the option of choosing a new candidate capable of running the state, especially in light of the current economic and financial challenges and regional conditions."

He noted that "there is some opposition to granting a second term," suggesting that "the most likely option is to move towards a new candidate for prime minister," stressing that "the 15-day deadline is sufficient to appoint the candidate."

He explained that "the Badr bloc supports the consensus of the Coordination Framework and will work to ensure the success of the next government in various fields," stressing that "the nomination of the President of the Republic was not conditional on the nomination of the Prime Minister and that the file is still in the hands of the Coordination Framework, which has 181 seats."

Al-Kadhimi concluded by saying that "the next stage requires the Prime Minister to work on passing the project of liberation from American hegemony over Iraq's resources."   link

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Tishwash: Al-Mar'idi: Barzani's refusal to recognize the president of the republic places him outside the framework of the political process.

MP Mansour Al-Maridi indicated today, Sunday, that Barzani’s refusal to recognize the President of the Republic puts him outside the framework of the political process. 

Al-Mar’idi told Al-Ma’louma News Agency that “such steps would create a new political crisis in the country,” explaining that “the political process is based on consensus and respect for the results, and any party that rejects it puts itself outside this framework.”

Al-Maridi added that "what is happening does not serve the stability of Iraq and increases tension between political forces," stressing "the need for calm and a return to dialogue because the country cannot bear more disputes at this stage." 

It should be noted that the Kurdistan Democratic Party, headed by Masoud Barzani, rejected the election of the new president, Nizar Amidi, and announced the withdrawal of its representatives from Baghdad to Erbil.  link

Tishwash:  Back to square one: 9 candidates for prime minister before the coordination framework

The head of the Design Alliance, Amer Al-Fayez, revealed on Sunday that the coordinating framework intends to discuss the names of 9 candidates for the premiership at its meeting tomorrow. 

Al-Fayez told Shafaq News Agency that "among the nominated names are the head of the State of Law Coalition, Nouri al-Maliki, the caretaker Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, former Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, the head of the Accountability and Justice Commission, Basim al-Badri, the leader of the Asas Party, Mohsen al-Mandalawi, the head of the Intelligence Service, Hamid al-Shatri, the Prime Minister's advisor, Mohammed Sahib al-Daraji, the former Minister of Planning, Ali Shukri, and the National Security Advisor, Qasim al-Araji."

He added that there is no preference between the candidates, indicating that tomorrow’s meeting will determine the mechanisms for selecting the most suitable among them.

 Al-Fayez explained that "Al-Maliki is still holding on to his nomination, despite objections from several political forces and blocs."

He pointed out that "the meeting, which will be held at the home of the leader of the Wisdom Movement, Ammar al-Hakim, will be attended by Maliki, and the meeting may conclude with an agreement on a candidate or mechanisms that determine the person of the next prime minister."

For his part, Abu Mithaq Al-Masari, a member of the Coordination Framework, confirmed that Al-Maliki was the only candidate who received the Coordination Framework’s vote.

Al-Masari told Shafaq News Agency that if the framework wants to discuss a list of names of candidates for the next government, it must officially withdraw its nomination and inform the leader of the State of Law coalition of this officially and in writing, and then the discussion will return to choosing the person qualified for the position.

He added, "The coordination framework was supposed to inform the President of the Republic of his candidate for the premiership, who is Maliki, but there is talk of political agreements, and therefore everyone is waiting for what will result from tomorrow's meeting."

This comes after the Speaker of Parliament called on the largest parliamentary bloc to nominate its candidate for Prime Minister within a maximum period of 15 days, based on Article 76 of the Constitution, following the election of the President of the Republic.

The process of forming a government faces additional complications, most notably the declared American position regarding al-Maliki’s return to power, and the escalating security tensions in the region, which puts political forces before the challenge of maintaining the “quota system” that has been in place since 2003 or sliding towards a comprehensive political deadlock.

Earlier on Sunday, the new President of the Republic, Nizar Amidi, officially assumed his duties as President of the Republic of Iraq, during a presidential ceremony held at the Baghdad Palace.

The Iraqi parliament elected, on Saturday, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan party candidate Nizar Amidi as the new president of the republic.

A political source revealed on Saturday that Basim al-Badri is considered a compromise candidate within the coordination framework for the position of the next Iraqi Prime Minister, at a time when the leaders of the framework are preparing to hold a meeting soon to officially decide on the candidate’s name.  link

************

Tishwash:  Moves to reshuffle the Sudanese government… and warnings of fragile balances and silent objections

 Informed sources revealed that there are ongoing political moves to rearrange the governmental landscape in Iraq, through unannounced understandings between Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and former Speaker of Parliament Mohammed al-Halbousi, aimed at recycling the current government instead of forming a completely new one.

Hassan Al-Amiri, a political writer, told Al-Jarida that these moves are accompanied by interventions in the files of the presidency of the parliament and the republic, which may pave the way for broader understandings that lead to the renewal of the government in a modified form, which gives some parties greater influence in managing the political decision.

He added that Al-Sudani is seeking to establish himself as a man of political balances, by opening up to influential figures, including Ammar Al-Hakim and Qais Al-Khazali, with the aim of securing multi-directional support, including parliamentary, political and factional dimensions, in addition to trying to build a political cover that transcends the components.

Al-Amiri pointed out that what is happening does not represent a radical change in the structure of power, but is closer to reproducing the current government with partial modifications, in light of the absence of a comprehensive consensus within the coordinating framework, which is expected to face these moves with clear reservations.

He pointed out that there are silent objections within the Shiite community, along with Kurdish reservations, especially from Erbil, as well as differences within the Sunni forces, which reflects the fragility of the current understandings and their susceptibility to disintegration at the first political test.

Al-Amiri stressed that the challenges are not limited to political disputes, but extend to a struggle over the distribution of ministries that are still run according to sectarian considerations, in addition to the possibility of escalating corruption cases, and the complexities of the relationship with armed factions.

He concluded by saying that the future of these understandings will remain contingent on the government's ability to manage internal balances, achieve progress on economic and service-related issues, and maintain a balance in foreign relations, particularly between the United States and Iran, amid anticipation of the Iraqi public's stance.  link

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Monday Morning 4-13-26

Al-Sudani Discusses With The Governor Of Najaf The Province's Projects And Services For Visitors

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad  Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani received the Governor of Najaf, Youssef Makki Kanawi, on Monday to discuss ongoing service and development projects in the province.

During the meeting, the level of project implementation and the speed of their completion were discussed in order to serve the citizens, taking into account the religious significance of Najaf Al-Ashraf, which receives millions of visitors annually.

Al-Sudani stressed the importance of integration between the federal government and local governments, emphasizing the need for projects in the provinces to be consistent with the government’s major development plans.

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=67846

EIA: Iraq’s Oil Exports To US Dip Over The Week

2026-04-12 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Washington   Iraq’s crude oil exports to the United States dropped 20,000 barrels per day (bpd) last week, US Energy Information Administration (EIA) data showed on Sunday.

According to the data, Iraqi shipments averaged 120,000 bpd last week, 14.29% less than the previous week’s average of 140,000 bpd.

Total US crude imports from seven major suppliers fell to 5.622 million bpd, down 218,000 bpd from 5.840 million bpd the previous week.

Canada remained the top supplier at 4.271 million bpd, followed by Saudi Arabia with 589,000 bpd, Venezuela with 321,000 bpd, and Mexico with 165,000 bpd.

Imports also included Brazil at 114,000 bpd, and Libya at 42,000 bpd. No oil was imported from Colombia, Nigeria and Ecuador this week.https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/EIA-Iraq-s-oil-exports-to-US-dip-over-the-week-6

6M+ Oil Barrels Clear Strait Of Hormuz

2026-04-12 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Tankers carrying 2 million barrels of Iraqi crude and 4 million barrels of Saudi oil have transited the Strait of Hormuz bound for international markets, according to tracking platform TankerTrackers on Sunday.

Shipping activity in the waterway is also gradually recovering, with approximately 12 vessels transiting the Strait during the first two days of the US-Iran two-week truce.

The Strait of Hormuz, which carries roughly 20% of global oil supply, was effectively closed after US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28. Despite a previously granted exemption allowing Iraqi oil tankers to transit the Strait, Iraq’s oil sector saw a sharp downturn, with production falling from about 3.5 million barrels per day (bpd) to around 1.3 million bpd, while exports declined to roughly 800,000 bpd.

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump revealed the start of mine-clearing operations in the Strait, noting that the passage was not coordinated with Tehran. Iran rejected the claims, calling them “inaccurate,” further dismissing US allegations that it had laid mines in the strategic waterway. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/6M-oil-barrels-clear-Strait-of-Hormuz

Iraq's Cooking Gas Output Halves As Regional War Squeezes Oil Production

2026-04-12 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq's LPG production has fallen by roughly 53% since the onset of regional hostilities, dropping from 9,500 tonnes per day to around 4,500 tonnes, the Eco Iraq economic observatory announced on Sunday.

In a report, the observatory said Iraq's pre-crisis daily output included approximately 3,000 tonnes from the Basra Gas Company, with the remainder sourced from refineries and associated gas in oil fields. The sharp decline in oil production driven by the security escalation has opened a supply gap that daily household consumption -estimated at between 6,000 and 6,500 tonnes- cannot bridge.

To compensate, authorities have drawn on underground reserves, which stood at roughly 107,000 tonnes before the crisis but have since fallen to approximately 53,000 tonnes. The observatory called for urgent expansion of underground storage capacity and stressed the need to distribute reserves geographically across provinces rather than concentrating them in specific areas.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-s-cooking-gas-output-halves-as-regional-war-squeezes-oil-production

Iraqi Exports To UK Limited To $4M In 2025

2026-04-12 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq’s exports to the United Kingdom remained at just about $4 million in 2025, the United Nations Comtrade database showed on Sunday.

Iraqi shipments to Britain are largely concentrated in food products rather than oil, which dominates Iraq’s export profile in most other markets. Dates led the list at roughly $883,000, followed by processed food items, including molasses, at about $454,000. Smaller volumes included textiles worth around $134,000, alongside limited exports of light equipment and other basic goods.

According to a 2025 report from the Iraqi Ministry of Finance, Iraq’s total trade with the United Kingdom stood at $1.108 billion in 2024, up from $1.072 billion in 2023. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraqi-exports-to-UK-limited-to-4M-in-2025

Iraq Secures 123rd Spot In 2026 Global Prosperity Index

2026-04-12 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq ranked 123rd out of 193 countries in a 2026 global prosperity index, underscoring a widening gap between economic resources and living standards, CEOWORLD Magazine reported on Sunday.

The index measures prosperity beyond income and growth, focusing on how countries translate wealth into health, education, services, and overall well-being. Iraq scored 51.56 points, placing it in the “moderate to weak performance” range.

At the top of the global ranking, Switzerland led with 97.92 points, followed by Iceland with 97.81 and Australia with 97.70. Germany and Norway also remained among the highest performers.

In regional terms, the United Arab Emirates topped the Arab world, ranking 13th globally with 94.04 points. Saudi Arabia followed with 88.25 points, then Bahrain with 86.01 and Qatar with 82.70.

Oman ranked fifth in the region with 81.68 points, followed by Kuwait with 76.99, Jordan with 65.60, Tunisia with 64.80, and Egypt with 62.35. At the bottom of the index, Djibouti recorded 26.80 points, placing it in the “fragile prosperity” category. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-secures-123rd-spot-in-2026-global-prosperity-index

Oil Surges Past $100 On US Hormuz Blockade Plan

2026-04-13 Shafaq News   Oil prices climbed above $100 a barrel on Monday as the U.S. Navy prepared to block ships to and ‌from Iran via the Strait of Hormuz, a move that could restrict Iranian oil exports, after Washington and Tehran failed to reach a deal to end the war.

Brent crude futures rose $6.96, or 7.3%, to $102.16 a barrel by 0430 GMT after settling 0.75% lower on Friday. U.S. West Texas Intermediate was up $8.12, or 8.4%, at $104.69 a barrel​following a 1.33% loss in the previous session.

"The market is now largely back to conditions before the ceasefire, except now ​the U.S. will block the remaining up to 2 million barrels per day Iranian-linked flows through the Strait of ⁠Hormuz as well," said Saul Kavonic, head of energy research at MST Marquee.

President Donald Trump said on Sunday the U.S. Navy would start blockading ​the Strait of Hormuz, raising the stakes after marathon talks with Iran failed to reach a deal to end the war, jeopardising ​a fragile two-week ceasefire.

He added that the price of oil and gasoline may remain high through November's midterm elections, a rare acknowledgement of the potential political fallout from his decision to attack Iran six weeks ago.

"The mere threat of enforcement alone has been sufficient to re-price risk, demonstrating how vulnerable oil remains ​to geopolitical triggers," said Priyanka Sachdeva, a senior market analyst at Phillip Nova.

"The return to triple-digit pricing, or the jump in a ​geopolitical risk premium that briefly faded during earlier ceasefire headlines, looks justified," Sachdeva added.

U.S. Central Command said U.S. forces would begin implementing the blockade of all ‌maritime traffic ⁠entering and exiting Iranian ports at 10 a.m. ET (1400 GMT) on Monday.

It would be "enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all Iranian ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman," a CENTCOM statement on X said.

U.S. forces would not impede freedom of navigation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian ports, it added.

IG ​market analyst Tony Sycamore said the ​move would effectively choke off ⁠the flow of Iranian oil, forcing Tehran's allies and customers to apply the necessary pressure to get the waterway reopened.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Sunday that any military vessels attempting to approach the ​Strait of Hormuz would be considered a violation of the two-week U.S. ceasefire and be dealt​with harshly and ⁠decisively.

Despite the stalemate, three supertankers fully laden with oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, shipping data showed. They appeared to be the first vessels to exit the Gulf since the ceasefire deal was struck last week.

Oil tankers are steering clear of the Strait of Hormuz ahead ⁠of the ​U.S. blockade on Iran, shipping data on LSEG showed.

On Sunday, Saudi Arabia said it ​has restored full oil pumping capacity through the East-West pipeline to about 7 million barrels per day, days after providing an assessment of damage to its energy sector ​from attacks during the Iran conflict.

(REUTERS)  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-surges-past-100-on-US-Hormuz-blockade-plan

Ray Dalio says economic world order ‘is gone’ — warns of US ‘civil war.’ Preserve your wealth now

‘Let’s not be naive’: Ray Dalio says economic world order ‘is gone’ — warns of US ‘civil war.’ Preserve your wealth now

Jing Pan  Sun, April 12, 2026  Moneywise

In the wake of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, billionaire and founder of Bridgewater Associates, Ray Dalio, sounded a global fire alarm, and it’s starting to look like he was right.

The short version? The old economic world order is gone, and it’s likely not coming back any time soon.

“Let’s not be naive, ok, and say: Oh, we’re breaking the rule-based system,” Dalio said in an interview with Fortune at the WEF (1). “It’s gone. It’s going.”  Dalio was referring to the current global balance of power between nations, which has hinged on relatively predictable U.S. foreign policy.

However, since March 18, all eyes have turned to Iran.

Due to the war, the price of gas has risen about 80 cents per gallon, put down to the limited supply caused by the near-closure of the Strait of Hormuz (2). CNN reported in early April that in a speech to the press, the President threatened to bring Iran “back to the stone ages, where they belong (3)”.

This could indicate another lengthy conflict in the Middle East, but it’s only the latest in a series of echoing foreign policy maneuvers spanning the last year. For instance, in April 2025, the S&P 500 had one of the largest dips in its history, driven by U.S. “reciprocal” tariffs (4). The remainder of 2025 saw threats against Greenland’s sovereignty, regular verbal sparring over NATO targets and further shifts in the ongoing Ukrainian War.

Now, with gas at over $4 a gallon on average, many everyday Americans and Wall Street investors are worried about the economic impacts the new energy crisis has triggered.

Wars on multiple fronts could spell disaster

Essentially, wars suck up time and capital while eroding trust. Purchasing debt from a nation actively engaged in a war, for example, could be a bad bet, according to Dalio.

And this isn’t the first time Dalio has warned about a shaky grasp on the current global world order. In an interview in late 2025 on Leaders with Francine Lacqua (5), Dalio was confronted with a blunt question: “Could we be close to another world war?”

He didn’t hesitate. “We are in wars,” Dalio replied. “There is a financial money war, there's a technology war, there's geopolitical wars, and there are more military wars.”

Then came his more unsettling assessment: The U.S. itself isn’t immune.

“We have a civil war of some sort, which is developing in the United States and elsewhere, where there are irreconcilable differences,” Dalio said.

Here’s how things break down on the home front.

Mounting Division

Political opinion in America is sharply divided.

The American Survey Center reported as of 2025 that 71% of Republicans were at least somewhat satisfied with the current state of affairs in the country, and only 12% of Democrats said the same. In 2024, 17% of Republicans and 51% of Democrats were satisfied.

And yet, 61% of Americans across the political spectrum now report dissatisfaction with the current administration and state of the nation (6).

With this in mind, Dalio’s bleak outlook may be more realistic.

It’s a stark warning — especially from someone who also cautioned earlier in the interview that “our power to hurt each other has never been greater.”

He outlined two paths the country could take.

To Read More: https://www.yahoo.com/finance/economy/policy/articles/let-not-naive-ray-dalio-090500188.html

Taboola the same on the Bottom of Posts

MilitiaMan and Crew: IRAQ DINAR UPDATE-President Done-Next up Prime Minister-Next Phase-National Interest-On Track-REER

MilitiaMan and Crew: IRAQ DINAR UPDATE-President Done-Next up Prime Minister-Next Phase-National Interest-On Track-REER

4-12-2026

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=ICVgqdqW9aQ

FDIC Only Has 1% Backing for Your Deposits

FDIC Only Has 1% Backing for Your Deposits

Lynette Zang:  4-12-2026

The FDIC insures trillions in deposits, but only holds a fraction of that in reserve.

What happens if there’s a bank run?

In this breakdown, we look at the real FDIC numbers, the risks to your bank account, and what it could mean for the financial system

Chapters:

00:00 Is FDIC Coverage Enough?

00:45 $18T Deposits vs Limited Insurance

01:48 Only Pennies on the Dollar

02:23 Bank Runs & Hidden Risk

03:15 Rising Bank Failures

03:47 Why You Need Cash Outside Banks

04:12 Interest Rates Crushing Debt Values

05:19 The Collateral Doom Loop

05:47 Purchasing Power Collapse

07:06 Gold & Silver vs the System

08:40 Diversification & Protection

09:34 How to Prepare for What’s Coming

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_IzY2h-MwE

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Sunday Afternoon 4-12-26

Erbil: Meeting Between Delegations From The Kurdistan Regional Government And The Federal Government Regarding Customs And ASYCUDA

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad  A meeting between delegations from the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Iraqi Federal Government regarding customs and the ASYCUDA system began this morning, Sunday, in the city of Erbil.

The Iraqi government delegation is headed by the Director General of the Iraqi Customs Authority, Thamer Qasim Dawood, and includes a representative of the ASYCUDA team, technicians from the Federal General Customs Authority, and the Legal Department of Customs Affairs.

Daoud announced that "the federal government strongly supports the development of customs affairs in the Kurdistan Region. It is ready to offer its technical expertise with the aim of strengthening the national economy at all ports and border points in the country."

The Director General of the Iraqi Customs Authority and head of the Iraqi government delegation to the meeting told Rudaw Media Network: “A final agreement will be reached at the meeting, and then the results will be submitted to the Iraqi Economic Ministerial Council, because the vision for the electronic transformation of customs originates primarily from that council.”

Sami Jalal, an advisor to the Ministry of Interior in the Kurdistan Region, had announced to Rudaw Media Network on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, that the delegations of the Kurdistan Region and the Iraqi government had reached an agreement on the ASYCUDA system, saying: “All the laws and particularities of the Kurdistan Region were taken into account in the implementation of the system.”

At the same time, Sami Jalal indicated that a meeting would be held on Sunday, April 12, 2026, in Erbil between the Kurdistan Region and the Iraqi government, and the following day the two delegations would return to Baghdad where the final agreement would be signed at the Iraqi Economic Council.

The advisor to the Ministry of Interior, who oversees ASYCUDA operations on the Kurdistan Region side, explained that the General Directorate of Customs in the Kurdistan Region will supervise the ASYCUDA system.

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=67803

Huge Losses And A Record Increase In Financial Corruption Cases In The European Union

Money and Business   Economy News - Follow-up   The European Public Prosecutor's Office is witnessing the registration of thousands of investigations into financialcrimes and corruption in the countries of the European Union, at a time when total losses exceed 67 billion euros annually as a result of these crimes.

Ruptly quoted European Parliament member Phidias Panayiotou as saying that the European Public Prosecutor's Office opened more than 3,600 active investigations last year, with estimated losses exceeding 67 billion euros, an indicator reflecting the widening scope of financial crimes within the European bloc.

The data related to active cases shows a significant disparity between member states, with Italy topping the list with approximately 991 active cases, with estimated losses reaching 28.71 billion euros, making it the most affected within the ongoing investigations.

Next comes Germany with 361 cases with an estimated value of 5.77 billion euros, followed by France with 121 cases and losses amounting to 5.94 billion euros, and then Belgium with 99 cases with a value of 3.14 billion euros.

The investigations overseen by the European Public Prosecutor's Office focus on tax fraud cases, particularly value-added tax, as well as money laundering cases and the misuse of EU funds allocated to support programs and development projects.

The investigations also include files related to transnational organized financial crimes, in addition to suspicions of corruption in public contracts and government procurement within a number of member states.

The European Public Prosecutor's Office is expected to continue expanding the scope of its investigations in the coming period, while strengthening cooperation between member states to combat complex and intertwined cross-border financial crimes.    https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=67721

US-Israeli War On Iran: What Is Happening On Day 40?

By Elizabeth Melimopoulos and AFP  EXPLAINER   News   Updated: 8 Apr 2026

 The US and Iran agree to a two-week truce on Tuesday, just an hour before Trump’s deadline to escalate the conflict expired.  Iran says it has accepted a two-week ceasefire, with talks set to begin on Friday in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, after United States President Donald Trump agreed to suspend attacks on the condition that Tehran fully reopens the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Abbas Araghchi said safe passage through the strategic waterway will be ensured for two weeks through coordination with the country’s armed forces.Iran war updates: Trump suspends US attacks, Tehran agrees to ceasefire

Trump’s move followed a request from Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who urged Washington to extend its deadline for a deal and called on Iran to reopen the strait.

Hours after the truce was announced, Israel bombed locations across Lebanon, including the capital Beirut, in devastating attacks that authorities say have killed at least 254 people.

In Iran:

• US, Iran, Israel agree to last-minute ceasefire: The US, Iran and Israel agreed to a two-week truce on Tuesday, just an hour before Trump’s deadline to escalate the conflict expired. Tehran agreed to temporarily reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while the White House confirmed Israel’s participation. The breakthrough followed talks with Pakistan’s leadership, which had pushed for a ceasefire.

• Hormuz terms under ceasefire: Under the agreement, safe passage will be coordinated, with Iran and Oman allowed to charge transit fees on passing ships. Tehran plans to use the revenue for post-war reconstruction.

• Ten-point peace plan: Talks are set to begin on Friday in Islamabad, mediated by Pakistan’s prime minister. Tehran’s proposal includes lifting sanctions, creating a war-loss fund, a potential US troop withdrawal from the Gulf, and recognition of Iran’s right to enrich uranium in exchange for a pledge not to build nuclear weapons. It is unclear whether the US has agreed to any of these proposals.

• Tehran synagogue struck: The Israeli military accepted that an overnight strike – which it said was targeting a senior Iranian commander – caused “collateral damage” to a synagogue in Tehran, expressing regret over the incident.

• Tehran leaders project strength: Al Jazeera’s Mohamed Vall reported from Tehran a “feeling of pride among the leaders”, who are telling the public that “this war is ending on Iran’s terms”.

War diplomacy:

• Trump says China helped bring Iran to talks: Donald Trump told AFP he believed China played a role in pushing Iran to negotiate the two-week ceasefire. “I hear yes,” he said when asked whether Beijing was involved in bringing its ally Tehran to the table.

• NATO chief to meet Trump in Washington: Mark Rutte is set to meet Trump on Wednesday, with discussions expected to focus on the Iran situation as well as Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, according to a NATO official.

• Regional reactions: The ceasefire has triggered street celebrations in Tehran and Baghdad, with Iranian leaders declaring the conflict is ending “on Iran’s terms”. However, some citizens remain sceptical, warning the US and Israel may be using the pause to “buy time” and regroup.

• Israel backs truce with limits: The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed support for the US decision to suspend strikes on Iran, but stressed the ceasefire does not extend to Lebanon.

• A fragile exit, and a narrow diplomatic window: Analyst Trita Parsi described the ceasefire as a strategic retreat by Trump, arguing the conflict had “become an absolute disaster” and forced the White House to seek a way out. “Trump needed an exit, and he took it,” he said, warning the next two weeks will be decisive, either opening a path to genuine diplomacy or allowing tensions to flare again.

In the Gulf

• Bahrain says fire contained after attack: No injuries were reported at an unnamed facility following the incident, authorities said.

• Saudi Arabia role acknowledged: The country was briefly mentioned and thanked by Australian leaders for its role as a mediator who helped facilitate the current ceasefire agreement.

• Qatar: Before the ceasefire was reached, Qatar said the war was approaching a stage where it could no longer be contained. A Foreign Ministry spokesman urged urgent de-escalation, saying, “This is why we have been urging all parties to find a resolution… before it’s too late.”

•  UAE: The United Arab Emirates said that 17 Iranian missiles and 35 drones had targeted its territory despite the ceasefire.

• Kuwait: The country also reported that at least 28 Iranian drones had damaged power and desalination plants as well as oil facilities, hours after the Iran-US truce came into effect.

In the US

• US frames ceasefire as leverage for diplomacy: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the military campaign was a success that achieved its goals, rejecting the idea of a retreat. She described the ceasefire as a calculated move, arguing it “created maximum leverage” for Trump to pursue tough negotiations, opening the door to a diplomatic solution and long-term peace.

• US ‘remains ready’: The US military is prepared to resume attacks on Iran if ordered by Trump, the top US general said Wednesday. “Let us be clear, a ceasefire is a pause, and the joint force remains ready, if ordered or called upon,” General Dan Caine told a press conference.

• US journalist released in Iraq: Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who had been kidnapped in Iraq days earlier. Her freedom came after the armed group Kataib Hezbollah said it would release her on the condition she leave the country immediately.

• Scrutiny over ‘perfectly timed’ bets: An online prediction platform, Polymarket, is facing questions over possible insider trading after an anonymous user reportedly made $400,000 by accurately betting on the start of US military action and the timing of the ceasefire — raising concerns about leaks tied to geopolitical decisions.

In Israel

•  Israel backs ceasefire, but not in Lebanon: Israel said on Wednesday it supported the two-week ceasefire with Iran but maintained the deal “does not include Lebanon”, where it has been fighting Iran-backed group Hezbollah.

• Reluctance over ceasefire: Al Jazeera’s Rob McBride reported that Prime Minister Netanyahu is “widely suspected of having derailed the last round of talks” brokered by Oman and remains “very wary of the word ‘ceasefire’.”

• ‘Political disaster’: Israel’s opposition leaders criticised the ceasefire, accusing Netanyahu of failing to achieve the war’s objectives.

• Israel warns Lebanon ships: The Israeli military urged all vessels in the maritime zone off the coast of southern Lebanon to immediately head north of the city of Tyre, warning that it would operate in the area.

In Iraq and Lebanon

• Massive casualties in Lebanon: Israel carried out 100 strikes across Lebanon, including the capital Beirut, in just 10 minutes. These devastating attacks have left at least 254 people dead and more than 1,165 wounded, completely overwhelming local hospitals.

• Beirut: Witnesses described the aftermath of the strikes as “apocalyptic”. Emergency responders and excavators are digging through the rubble of dozens of destroyed homes in neighbourhoods such as Salim Salam and al-Mazraa, searching for survivors and recovering bodies.

• Hezbollah signals defiance: The Lebanese group Hezbollah has not directly commented on the ceasefire, but shared a past statement by the late Iranian supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, alongside imagery of torn US and Israeli flags, warning: “We will make the enemy kneel.”

• Iran-aligned groups pause operations in Iraq: The Islamic Resistance in Iraq said it will observe the truce, suspending military operations in Iraq and across the region for two weeks.

Global economy

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• Oil drops below $100: Crude prices fell on Wednesday after Trump announced a two-week ceasefire with Iran, easing fears of supply disruptions.

• Caution despite ceasefire relief: Alex Holmes of the Economist Intelligence Unit said the ceasefire remains uncertain, with markets in “wait-and-see mode” as a “big gap” remains in negotiations. While oil prices fell after the announcement, he noted they are still significantly higher than in late February.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/4/8/iran-war-what-is-happening-on-day-40-of-us-israeli-attacks

“Iraq News” Posted by Tishwash at TNT 4-12-2026

TNT:

Tishwash:  The Prime Minister congratulates Nizar Amidi on his election as President of the Republic.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani congratulated Nizar Amidi on Saturday on his election as President of the Republic.

In a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), the Prime Minister said: “We extend our sincere congratulations to Nizar Mohammed Saeed Amidi on his election as President of the Republic by the Council of Representatives.

This important step strengthens the ongoing democratic process in our beloved country and completes the constitutional path, as well as embodying the great respect for the will of our people, which they expressed through their distinguished participation in the recent parliamentary elections.

He added, "With the completion of this national milestone, we now await the crucial step of forming a strong coalition government, grounded in national and constitutional principles. This government will build upon our work in development and urban renewal, solidify Iraq's international standing, and strengthen its foreign relations.

It will also address internal challenges, including extending state authority, consolidating the capabilities of our armed forces in all their branches to enforce the law and maintain a monopoly on the use of force, ensuring that security is not jeopardized, and safeguarding Iraq's sovereignty and supreme interests, in addition to addressing economic challenges."

He continued, "On this occasion, we express our profound gratitude to the Speaker of Parliament, the members of Parliament, and all national political forces who contributed to achieving this important accomplishment." He also expressed "our appreciation for the role of the Supreme Judicial Council and its commitment to supporting the fulfillment of constitutional obligations, as well as its emphasis on the importance of respecting the timelines stipulated by the Constitution." link

************

Tishwash:  The President of the Republic: I assure you that we will work on the principle of "Iraq First".

 President-elect Nizar Amidi affirmed on Saturday his commitment to the principle of "Iraq First," while condemning the attacks targeting Iraq.

In a speech before the Council of Representatives, which was monitored by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), the President stated, "My appointment is a great responsibility," explaining that he "appreciates the magnitude of the challenges facing our country."

He added, "I affirm my commitment to working with the executive, legislative, and judicial authorities," noting that "we support efforts to end the war."

The President condemned the attacks targeting Iraq, indicating that he "will work to defend the interests of the Iraqi people."

He emphasized that "our country faces complex problems in several areas," stating, "I assure you that we will work according to the principle of 'Iraq First.'"  link

************

Tishwash:  Parliament requires the largest bloc to name the prime minister within 15 days

Speaker of Parliament Haibat al-Halbousi called on the largest parliamentary bloc on Saturday to nominate its candidate for prime minister within 15 days, stressing that the constitution obligates the president and the largest bloc to complete this process within the specified timeframe.

Speaking after the presidential election, al-Halbousi said, "The country is going through a difficult and exceptional period, and we must all bear the legal and legitimate responsibility to guide the country to safety." He added, "The second step has been completed with the election of the president."

He further stated that "the president and the parliamentary bloc that was presented in the first session, and which is the largest bloc, are obligated, according to Article 76 of the constitution, to present their candidate within a maximum period of 15 days." He noted that "parliament will monitor the completion of this period in accordance with the constitution and the law."

He explained that "the country is experiencing a difficult economic situation, and a caretaker government is not permitted, according to the constitution, to proceed with any financial, economic, or reform measures." He emphasized the necessity of "expediting the formation of the government because people's livelihoods depend on it."

For his part, outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani congratulated Nizar Mohammed Saeed Amidi on his election as President of the Republic, affirming that "this step strengthens the democratic process and completes the constitutional path."

Al-Sudani added that "the next phase requires fulfilling the crucial requirement of forming a strong coalition government within the framework of national and constitutional principles," noting the importance of "continuing the development process, strengthening foreign relations, and confronting security and economic challenges."

He  expressed his gratitude to the Speaker of Parliament, its members, and the political forces that contributed to achieving this milestone, and commended the role of the Supreme Judicial Council in supporting the fulfillment of the constitutional deadlines.

The Iraqi Parliament elected Nizar Amidi, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan's candidate, as the new President of the Republic on Saturday evening, April 11.

After the new Iraqi President took the oath, Parliament adjourned the session.  link

Tishwash:  A surprising condition in the coordination framework excludes Maliki and Sudani from the premiership.

The Coordination Framework is holding intensive meetings to finalize the nomination of a candidate for the new Iraqi prime minister.

According to information provided by a leader within the coalition, the withdrawal of Nouri al-Maliki and Mohammed Shia al-Sudani is a prerequisite for agreeing on a new candidate, with Basim al-Badri considered the frontrunner for the position.

On Saturday, April 11, 2026, Abdul Rahman al-Jazaeri, a leader in the Coordination Framework, told Kurdistan 24 that the framework has been meeting since 2:00 PM to discuss the candidate for the position of Prime Minister of Iraq, and another meeting is scheduled for 7:00 PM to finalize this matter.

Al-Jazairi indicated that the key to a decisive outcome lies in the withdrawal of both Nouri al-Maliki and Mohammed Shia al-Sudani from the race. He added, "Haider al-Abadi, Hamid al-Shatri, and Basim al-Badri are all candidates for the position, but Basim al-Badri has the strongest chance of winning."

In the same context, Yasser Talal, a member of the media team of Nouri al-Maliki’s office, wrote on his personal Facebook account: “On my responsibility, al-Sudani’s dream of a second term is over, and Nouri al-Maliki is still a candidate for the position of Prime Minister until now.”

Talal added: "Iraq will have a new prime minister, and the coordinating framework has agreed to move forward with the constitutional requirements."

It is worth noting that the Iraqi parliament has elected a new president for the republic, and according to constitutional procedures, the president has 15 days to assign a person to form the new government cabinet.  link

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Sunday Morning 4-12-26

Iraq Elects Nizar Amedi As President

2026-04-11 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq’s Parliament elected Nizar Amedi as president on Saturday, following a second round of voting in which he secured the required majority. 

The vote came after no candidate reached the two-thirds threshold (220 out of 329 lawmakers) in the first round, sending the process to a runoff under constitutional rules requiring half-plus-one, or 165 votes.

Amedi, a candidate of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), had led the first round with 208 votes, advancing to the second round alongside independent candidate Muthanna Amin. 

Parliament announced the result after completing the vote-counting process for the second round, in which 249 lawmakers participated.  This is a breaking story…  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Iraq-elects-Nizar-Amedi-president

Iraq Elects Nizar Amedi President

2026-04-11 Shafaq News- Baghdad    Iraq’s Parliament elected Nizar Amedi as president on Saturday, following a second round of voting in which he secured 227 votes.

 The vote came after no candidate reached the two-thirds threshold(220 out of 329 lawmakers)in the first round, sending the process to a runoff under constitutional rules requiring half-plus-one, or 165 votes.

 Parliament announced the result after completing the vote-counting process for the second round, in which 249 lawmakers participated.

 Amedi, a candidate of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), had led the first round with 208 votes, advancing alongside independent candidate Muthanna Amin. With his victory, he becomes Iraq’s sixth president since 2003, following the fall of the Baath Party regime led by former president Saddam Hussein.

Who is Nizar Amedi?

 Amedi is a senior PUK party leader and former Iraqi environment minister. He resigned from his ministerial post in 2024 to focus on political and party work. He currently heads the PUK’s political bureau in Baghdad and is a member of the State Administration Coalition. Amedi holds a degree in mechanical engineering and has played a growing role in the PUK’s federal-level strategy.

 He previously served as chief of staff to the current President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid in 2022, and held the same post under former President Barham Salih between 2018 and 2022. He also acted as the president’s representative to the Council of Ministers. 

Earlier in his career, Amedi headed the office of former President Fuad Masum from 2014 to 2018, and served as chief of staff to the late President Jalal Talabani between 2008 and 2014. From 2005 to 2008, he worked as Talabani’s personal secretary, placing him among a small circle of officials with long-standing institutional experience at the heart of Iraq’s presidency. 

This is a breaking story…https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Iraq-elects-Nizar-Amedi-president

Iraq's Presidential Vote Was A Coalition Rehearsal —And The Premiership Battle Has Already Begun

2026-04-11 Shafaq News    Nizar Amedi's election as Iraq's sixth president on April 11 settled one constitutional question and opened a harder one. The 227 out of 329 votes that carried him to the Palace of Peace were a cross-sectarian coalition demonstrating, in public and on the record, that it has the numbers to claim the premiership. The blocs that boycotted read the session the same way, and Iraq's next political battle began the moment the vote was counted. 

Under Iraq's post-2003 constitutional architecture, the presidency is a gatekeeper rather than a seat of power. Its occupant holds limited executive authority but performs a pivotal function: once elected, the president formally tasks the largest parliamentary bloc with nominating a prime minister —the Shiite figure who will actually govern.

Therefore, the real prize in Saturday's session was the political signal embedded in who showed up, who stayed away, and what that alignment portends for the premiership contest now formally underway. 

The Man and the Moment

Amedi, born in Al-Amediya in the northern province of Duhok in 1968, is a figure whose career has been built inside Iraq's presidential institution rather than above it. A mechanical engineering graduate from the University of Mosul, he served as chief of staff to three consecutive presidents —the late Jalal Talabani, Fuad Masum, and Barham Salih— before heading the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan's (PUK) political bureau in Baghdad.

He later served as environment minister before resigning in 2024 to focus on party work. His profile is that of an institutional insider: a man who knows how the presidency is operated from within, who has navigated its relationships with Baghdad and Erbil across multiple administrations, and who carries no political weight heavy enough to threaten the factions that backed him. 

That profile was precisely what made him viable. In a political moment defined by competing ambitions and external pressure, Amedi's election represented a lowest-common-denominator consensus —not the most powerful candidate available, but the most acceptable one to a coalition with incompatible objectives. Iraq's post-2003 tradition reserves the presidency for a Kurdish figure, most often from the PUK. That convention was held on Saturday. What did not hold was any illusion that the presidency resolved the deeper impasse. 

The Coalition That Voted —and What It Was

The 227 votes that secured Amedi's election in the second round did not emerge from a unified political project. They were assembled from blocs whose common ground begins and ends with opposition —even implicit opposition— to the candidacy of former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, formally nominated by the Shiite Coordination Framework —Iraq's largest parliamentary bloc— for the premiership in January 2026. 

The attending coalition spans Iraq's three main political communities. On the Shiite side, al-Sudani's Reconstruction and Development coalition, which won 46 seats in November's elections, formally endorsed al-Maliki as the Framework's nominee while simultaneously positioning al-Sudani for a second term— a dual track that Saturday's session brought into the open.

The Sadiqoun movement —political wing of Asaib Ahl al-Haq, an Iran-aligned paramilitary force— contributed 27 seats, with Ammar al-Hakim's al-Hikma Movement and Hadi al-Amiri's Badr Organization adding 18 seats each. On the Sunni side, Mohammed al-Halbousi's Taqadum party delivered 33 seats. The PUK's 15 seats completed the Kurdish share. 

The composition matters because it is cross-sectarian on both sides of the divide. The blocs that attended were not a Shiite majority forcing a Kurdish figurehead through —they were a Shiite-Kurdish-Sunni coalition operating against a Shiite-Kurdish-Sunni opposition. 

The old analytical shorthand that frames Iraq's political deadlocks as sectarian collisions does not apply here. Both camps carry multi-ethnic credentials. What separates them is competing calculations about who controls the next government.

 The blocs that stayed away delivered an equally clear message. Al-Maliki's State of Law coalition, holding 29 seats, boycotted the session outright —a refusal to participate in a political exercise from which it had been effectively excluded.

The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), the largest Kurdish bloc in parliament with 26 seats, also stayed away, having demanded that its own candidate, Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, be installed in the presidency race. The al-Azm Alliance, a Sunni bloc with 17 seats that had publicly declared its support for al-Maliki's premiership bid in January, joined the boycott as well. 

The al-Azm Alliance's position contains an internal contradiction worth flagging. Its lawmakers had previously declared al-Maliki "the best option for Sunnis before Shiites at this stage," yet boycotted a session whose outcome —if it produced a functioning government coalition— would marginalize precisely that candidacy. The boycott was a refusal to lend legitimacy to a coalition-building exercise conducted on terms set by its rivals. 

Raad al-Dahlaki, an Al-Azm Alliance parliamentarian, told Shafaq News that the obstruction of the presidential session had nothing to do with Kurdish disagreements and everything to do with "political conflicts among blocs" over the premiership. His framing confirmed that the session's presidential vote was a proxy battlefield for a premiership contest that had been building since January.

The Framework's Fracture —and the Constitutional Bind It Creates

The Shiite Coordination Framework, which holds about 185 of parliament's 329 seats, remains constitutionally positioned as the body Iraq's new president must task with nominating a prime minister.

That designation has not changed. What has changed is that a significant portion of the Framework's own membership has now participated in a political exercise that directly challenges the nomination the Framework formally issued in January. 

The Framework nominated al-Maliki on January 24, but Al-Hakim and Al-Khazali expressed reservations privately, Al-Ameri's Badr Organization voiced hesitation, and Al-Sudani's camp endorsed al-Maliki, but quietly floated alternative names, including parliamentary bloc leader Bahaa al-Araji. None of these objections were formalized publicly —the Framework maintained surface cohesion while fracturing beneath it. 

The April 11 session ended that pretense, and the Framework is now split between the blocs that participated in Saturday's coalition and those that did not, and it is formally being tasked with a premiership nomination that the blocs cannot agree on. 

CF member Abu Mithaq al-Masari told Shafaq News that even if Amedi formally tasks al-Maliki with forming a government, securing parliamentary confidence would not be automatic, warning that political legitimacy requires broad consensus rather than numerical advantage alone. "The government will not pass if it fails to secure agreement," he said. 

A source close to Sunni political forces echoed the warning, telling Shafaq News that if the prime minister-designate fails to win support across parliamentary blocs, the constitutional deadline could expire without a confidence vote, forcing a political reset. 

External Veto and the al-Maliki Equation

Al-Maliki's candidacy has been shaped as much by external as by internal opposition. Washington formally conveyed its objections through US envoy Tom Barrack during a visit to Baghdad, and President Donald Trump publicly criticized al-Maliki's 2006–2014 tenure —a period marked by the sectarian consolidation of state institutions and the eventual collapse of Iraqi security forces before ISIS in 2014. A US State Department spokesperson told Shafaq News that during that tenure, Iraq "descended into poverty and total chaos." 

Iran, whose influence over Iraq's Shiite political landscape runs deep, has a more ambiguous position. Tehran views al-Maliki as a known quantity whose earlier tenure, despite its failures, maintained Iraq's alignment with Iranian regional interests.

But Iranian-aligned factions within the Framework, including Sadiqoun and elements of Badr, participated in the coalition that voted for Amedi, suggesting that Tehran's preference for al-Maliki is neither unconditional nor capable of overriding the internal arithmetic of its Iraqi partners. 

The Framework has publicly insisted the premiership is "a purely Iraqi matter" and that external pressure will not determine its nominee. Whether that position holds as US pressure intensifies and the coalition assembled on April 11 consolidates around an alternative candidate will define the next phase of negotiations. 

What Cannot Be Deferred?

Amedi now faces the constitutional sequence that his election triggered: The Framework formally tasked by the Parliament Speaker to nominate a prime minister within 15 days, then, after approval, the new premier has 30 days to present a cabinet and secure a parliamentary confidence vote.

In practice, that timeline has never been met in Iraq's post-2003 history. The more immediate political reality is that the Framework's two factions —those who voted on Saturday and those who boycotted— must either reconcile around a single nominee or one side must prevail. 

The attending coalition controls approximately 155 to 160 seats. The boycotting coalition controls approximately 110 to 115 —precisely the blocking third that, under the Federal Supreme Court's 2022 quorum ruling, can deny a confidence vote if it holds together. 

Al-Maliki's camp has demonstrated both the will and the arithmetic to do so. The coalition that elected Amedi has demonstrated the same capacity in reverse. Iraq's government formation process has entered a phase in which neither side can govern without the other, and neither side has yet offered the other a reason to concede. 

The country at the center of these negotiations cannot afford to wait. Iraq's caretaker government —legally barred from passing budgets, signing major contracts, or approving structural spending— is responsible for the salaries, pensions, and welfare payments of more than nine million people. More than eight billion dollars in infrastructure contracts sit frozen. The political class has produced a system in which the costs of deadlock fall on citizens and the incentives for resolution fall on no one. 

Amedi enters the presidency understanding its limits better than almost anyone in Baghdad. Seventeen years inside the institution taught him how it is managed. The harder lesson —how to use it to break a deadlock whose architecture benefits the very forces he must now negotiate with— has no precedent in Iraq's post-2003 record to draw from.

Written and edited by Shafaq News staff.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Report/Iraq-s-Presidential-vote-was-a-coalition-rehearsal-and-the-premiership-battle-has-already-begun

Read more: Iraq Government Formation: The Constitution that cannot enforce its own deadlines

Basim Al-Badri CF's Compromise Candidate For Iraq’s Prime Minister

2026-04-11    Shafaq News- Baghdad

 Basim al-Badri has emerged as a leading compromise candidate within the Shiite Coordination Framework (CF) for Iraq's next prime minister, Amer al-Fayez, a CF leader and head of the Tasmim parliamentary bloc, told Shafaq News Saturday.

 A separate source told Shafaq News that the Reconstruction and Development Coalition, headed by caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, and the State of Law Coalition, headed by former prime minister Nouri al-Maliki, had reached an understanding to back a consensus figure, with al-Badri's name set to be tabled at the upcoming meeting. "He has higher chances as a settlement candidate inside the Framework," the source said.

 Al-Badri heads the Accountability and Justice Commission and is a member of the Islamic Dawa Party, led by al-Maliki, with connections inside and outside the country. (Iran) Former Deputy Parliament Speaker Mohsen al-Mandalawi was also named as a competing candidate still in the running.

 Parliament Speaker Haibet al-Halbousi has called on the largest parliamentary bloc to name its prime ministerial candidate within 15 days under Article 76 of the constitution, following Saturday's election of Nizar Amedi as President.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Basim-al-Badri-CF-s-compromise-candidate-for-Iraq-s-Prime-Minister

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Sunday Morning 4-12-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Oil Shock Reverberates, Capital Flight Risks Rise, and Central Banks Face Policy Trap

Fresh global developments show energy instability, fragile capital flows, and limited policy options converging at a critical moment 

Overview

In the last 24 hours, new developments highlight a global financial system under mounting strain from multiple directions. Energy markets remain volatile, emerging markets face rising capital flight risks, and central banks are increasingly constrained in how they respond.

This convergence points to a system where traditional tools are losing effectiveness, increasing the likelihood of structural financial change rather than cyclical adjustment.

Key Developments

1. Oil Market Instability Continues to Ripple Across Global Economy
Oil prices remain highly sensitive following recent disruptions, with markets reacting to fragile ceasefire conditions and supply uncertainty.

• Prices surged sharply, briefly pushing toward $100 per barrel levels

• Ongoing concerns about key shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz

• Energy volatility feeding directly into inflation and growth concerns

Why it matters: Energy shocks act as a system-wide multiplier, impacting inflation, trade costs, and central bank policy simultaneously.

2. IMF Warns of Capital Flight and Financial Instability in Emerging Markets
New warnings highlight that emerging economies are increasingly exposed to rapid capital outflows and financial shocks.

• Heavy reliance on non-bank lenders and hedge fund capital

• Risk of sudden withdrawals triggering currency declines

• Growing exposure to private credit and opaque financing structures

Why it matters: These markets are often the first to destabilize in global financial shifts, acting as early indicators of broader systemic stress.

3. Central Banks Face a Policy Trap Between Inflation and Growth
Policymakers are increasingly constrained as inflation risks remain elevated while growth slows.

• Oil-driven inflation complicates rate-cut decisions

• Higher energy costs reduce consumer purchasing power

• Risk of simultaneous inflation and economic slowdown (stagflation dynamics)

Why it matters: Central banks are losing flexibility, signaling a shift toward a system where policy can no longer easily stabilize markets.

Why It Matters

These developments are deeply interconnected and signal structural pressure building across the system:

• Energy shocks driving persistent inflation volatility

• Capital flows becoming unstable and reactive

• Emerging markets acting as pressure points

• Monetary policy tools reaching practical limits

This combination reflects a system transitioning away from centralized stability toward fragmented and reactive financial conditions.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

• Capital flight risks may trigger sharp currency devaluations in vulnerable regions

• Energy-driven inflation can reshape global purchasing power dynamics

• Policy limitations increase the likelihood of alternative monetary frameworks emerging

• Volatility creates both risk and opportunity across currency markets

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Capital Flow Instability

As investment becomes more volatile, the system shifts away from stable long-term capital allocation toward short-term, reactive flows.

• Pillar 2: Policy Constraint & Stagflation Risk

Central banks facing simultaneous inflation and slowing growth signals a structural imbalance requiring new solutions beyond traditional tools.

Closing Perspective

The global system is no longer operating under stable conditions—it is reacting to overlapping shocks.

When energy volatility, capital instability, and policy constraints align, the result is not just uncertainty—it is systemic transition.

This is not just economic pressure — it’s the framework of global finance being tested in real time.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Oil rises and global markets react to fragile ceasefire and supply concerns – The Guardian

• IMF warns emerging markets face capital flight risks from hedge fund exposure – The Guardian

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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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