Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Saturday Afternoon 4-25-26

Iraq Ranks 29th Globally With 174.6 Tons Gold Reserves

2026-04-25    Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq maintained its position among the world’s largest gold reserve holders, ranking 29th globally with holdings of 174.6 tons, the UK-based World Gold Council reported on Saturday.

Saudi Arabia topped Arab countries with reserves of 323.1 tons, followed by Lebanon with 286.8 tons, while Iraq ranked third regionally, holding its place with 174.6 tons. Algeria came fourth among Arab states with 173.6 tons, followed by Libya in fifth place with 146.8 tons, reflecting varying levels of gold reserves across the region.

Globally, the United States retained its lead as the largest gold holder with 8,113 tons, followed by Germany with 3,350 tons, Italy with 2,451 tons, France with 2,437 tons, and Russia in fifth place with 2,311 tons.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-ranks-29th-globally-with-174-6-tons-gold-reserves

Iran, Iraq Eye $20B Trade Target With New Barter System Plan

2026-04-25 Shafaq News- Tehran   Iran and Iraq are moving to establish a barter system for goods and services as part of efforts to expand bilateral trade, the head of the Iran–Iraq Joint Chamber of Commerce said on Saturday.

Yahya Al-Eshaq indicated that the initiative forms part of the chamber’s strategic plans for the year, aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two countries.

Iraq remains one of the main destinations for Iran’s non-oil exports, importing goods, technical and engineering services, and energy worth billions of dollars annually, he noted, describing the relationship as strategically significant on both commercial and geopolitical levels.

The cooperation has supported economic growth, job creation, infrastructure development, and closer economic integration, supported by shared religious and cultural ties and a long land border that facilitates trade and investment.

The chamber is targeting an increase in bilateral trade to $20 billion annually, a goal that requires addressing key challenges including trade imbalances, administrative and bureaucratic hurdles, and the impact of sanctions.

Proposed measures include launching a barter mechanism for goods and services, creating a joint investment platform, establishing a financial settlement system for traders, setting up a clearing center, and accelerating export processes to Iraq while facilitating imports into Iran. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iran-Iraq-eye-20B-trade-target-with-new-barter-system-plan

Brazil Overtakes Iraq In China Oil Supply Shift

2026-04-24 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Brazil and Angola posted significant gains in China’s crude oil imports for the first quarter of 2026, at the expense of Iraq and Gulf producers, the Iraq Future Foundation for Economic Studies and Consultations said on Friday.

In a statement, Manar al-Obaidi, head of the foundation, explained that the decline in Iraq’s market share is not solely linked to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, but also to structural factors that have strengthened competing suppliers.

“Brazil and Angola offer higher-quality crude with lower sulfur content compared to Iraqi oil, making it more attractive to Chinese refineries seeking to reduce refining costs,” he said, adding that both countries benefit from not being bound by OPEC+ production quotas, a factor that allows them greater flexibility to meet rising Chinese demand and expand their market share.

Shipping security was also cited as a key factor, with routes from South America and Africa seen as more stable and less exposed to tensions affecting Middle Eastern waterways.

Read more: Iraq’s oil bottleneck: Abundance trapped by dependency

Despite Iraq currently holding about 10 percent of China’s oil imports, he warned of a sharp decline expected in April and May, as the full impact of Strait of Hormuz disruptions becomes more evident in second-quarter data.

“The bigger risk lies in the potential long-term entrenchment of this shift,” he cautioned, noting that strong ties between China and countries such as Russia, Brazil, and Angola within the BRICS group could provide them with sustained economic and political advantages.

Al-Obaidi warned that if the crisis continues, “Iraq may struggle to regain its market share even after conditions stabilize, unless it resorts to significant price discounts.”

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

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Brazil-overtakes-Iraq-as-China-s-oil-supplier-amid-shifting-trade-dynamics

Iraq Oil Output Plunges 3M Bpd, Food Security “Safe”

2026-04-25   Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq’s oil production has fallen to 1.3 million barrels per day from 4.3 million due to disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz following the US-Israeli war on Iran.

The conflict has constrained maritime traffic through the strategic waterway, a key artery for global oil trade, pushing exports below 800,000 barrels per day and driving losses estimated at about $128 million daily.

Read more: Iraq’s oil bottleneck: Abundance trapped by dependency

Despite this, the impact –particularly on food security– is expected to remain limited over the medium term, Prime Minister financial adviser Mazhar Mohammed Salih told Shafaq News. He outlined two main tracks underpinning economic stability, centered on domestic support measures and external financial buffers.

The first track rests on sustained government subsidies covering essential goods, including the food basket and strategic reserves, alongside support for agriculture, particularly grain production, as well as fuel, healthcare, and other social and economic services, while the second centers on foreign currency reserves, which remain sufficient to finance external trade for more than a year and are backed by oil export revenues as the country’s primary source of hard currency.

At around $100 billion, the reserves provide what Salih described as a “relative safety margin” for managing external obligations and maintaining exchange rate stability. Monetary policy also continues to balance liquidity with price stability while ensuring access to foreign currency, helping contain inflationary pressures.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-oil-output-plunges-3M-bpd-food-security-safe

Basrah Crudes Rallies As Oil Markets Climb

2026-04-25 Shafaq News- Basrah   Basrah’s Heavy and Medium crude grades closed last week with gains, tracking a broader rise in global oil prices amid continued uncertainty over US–Iran negotiations.

Basrah Heavy rose by $2.50 in the final trading session to settle at $120.37 per barrel, bringing its weekly gain to $3.78, or 3.24%. Basrah Medium increased by $2.50 to $122.47 per barrel at the close, posting a weekly gain of $3.51, or 2.95%.

Global benchmarks also advanced, with Brent crude up 0.9% to $106 per barrel on Friday, heading for weekly gains of around 17%, while US West Texas Intermediate traded near $96.5 per barrel, up roughly 0.8%.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Basrah-crudes-rallies-as-oil-markets-climb

USD/IQD Exchange Rates Climb In Baghdad, Erbil

2026-04-25 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   The US dollar opened Saturday’s trading higher in Iraq, rising to around 155,250 dinars per 100 dollars.

According to a Shafaq News market survey, the dollar traded in Baghdad’s al-Kifah and al-Harithiya exchanges at 155,250 dinars per 100 dollars, up from 154,950 dinars recorded last Thursday.

In the Iraqi capital, exchange shops sold the dollar at 155,750 dinars and bought it at 154,750 dinars, while in Erbil, selling prices stood at 155,050 dinars and buying prices at 154,900 dinars.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/USD-IQD-exchange-rates-climb-in-Baghdad-Erbil-4-5

Gold Prices Stabilize In Baghdad And Erbil

2026-04-25 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   On Saturday, gold prices in Baghdad and Erbil hovered around 1.03 million IQD per mithqal for 21-carat gold, according to a market survey by Shafaq News.

Gold prices on Baghdad’s Al-Nahr Street recorded a selling price of 1,031,000 IQD per mithqal (equivalent to five grams) for 21-carat gold, including Gulf, Turkish, and European varieties, with a buying price of 1,028,000 IQD, the same as Thursday’s rates.

The selling price for 21-carat Iraqi gold stood at 1,001,000 IQD, with a buying price of 998,000 IQD. In jewelry stores, the selling price per mithqal of 21-carat Gulf gold ranged between 1,030,000 and 1,040,000 IQD, while Iraqi gold sold for between 1,000,000 and 1,010,000 IQD.

In Erbil, gold prices declined, with 22-carat gold 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-stabilize-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil-6

Iraq News Posted by Tishwash at TNT 4-25-2026

TNT:

Tishwash:  Washington confirms that the suspension of dollar shipments to Iraq is "temporary".

 The US State Department confirmed that Washington has temporarily suspended dollar shipments to Iraq. A State Department spokesperson, according to a statement carried by Kurdish media outlets, said, "The transfer of US dollars to Iraq has been temporarily halted."

The spokesperson added, "The United States has temporarily suspended some security cooperation activities with Iraq, while continuing joint counterterrorism efforts that enhance US national security."  lin

Tishwash:  A parliamentary message to the framework: No deadline after Saturday, we will choose the prime minister.

 Mahmoud al-Shammari, a member of the Services Bloc in the Iraqi Parliament, revealed on Thursday evening that members of Parliament intend to collect signatures and send an official letter to the President of the Republic to nominate a suitable person for the position of Prime Minister, in the event that the Coordination Framework does not reach an agreement on choosing a candidate by next Saturday.

Al-Shammari told Shafaq News Agency that "if the coordination framework does not reach an agreement to choose a candidate for the position of Prime Minister within the constitutionally specified period, then the members of the House of Representatives will have a different opinion on the matter."

He added: "We are waiting for the leadership of the framework until next Saturday, and if they do not reach an agreement to choose the appropriate candidate for the position of Prime Minister, then the members of Parliament will collect signatures and send an official letter to the President of the Republic to nominate the appropriate person and get out of the political deadlock."

The MP stressed that “the House of Representatives is capable of nominating the person as it is the legislative authority in the country and the highest authority in the Iraqi state,” noting that “the continuation of the situation as it is and the continuation of the caretaker government and 10 vacant ministries without a minister pushes us to intervene in the matter of choosing the candidate for the next government.”

A member of the coordination framework, Amer Al-Fayez, told Shafaq News Agency on Thursday that the ongoing meetings had led to important understandings to resolve the disputes, suggesting that the nomination of a candidate for the premiership would be decided within the next few hours.

With Iraq entering the post-election phase of President Nizar Amidi, attention is turning to the most important entitlement, which is the formation of the new government, amidst heated political debate within the coordination framework regarding the prime minister candidate.

The coordinating framework had set a date for a crucial meeting last Saturday, before postponing it to Monday, with the aim of deciding on a candidate for the premiership. However, the meeting ended without reaching a final agreement, so it was postponed to Wednesday, before being postponed again to Friday.   link

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Tishwash:  Expected decision today: Al-Sudani is the most likely candidate for prime minister after the chances of Al-Maliki's candidate diminished.

All eyes are on Saturday for a crucial meeting of the Coordination Framework forces, which is expected to end the debate over the name of the next prime minister, after postponing the decision that was scheduled for Friday, amid rapid developments in the positions of the political forces.

Well-informed political sources confirmed that the balance of power within the framework has clearly shifted in favor of the current Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, after the leader of the State of Law Coalition, Nouri al-Maliki, realized the difficulty of passing his alternative candidate in light of the decline in political support for him.

According to the sources, the ball is back in Sudani’s court, who has become the most likely candidate to receive the official mandate to form the new government, in light of growing consensus within the Shiite forces.

The information indicated that Maliki showed some flexibility in his position during the last few hours, with indications that he would move towards supporting the consensus of the framework forces on assigning Al-Sudani, in order to avoid further political division.

Today’s meeting is expected to produce a decisive announcement regarding the appointment of the prime minister, in a move that could pave the way for a new political phase characterized by consensus and an attempt to contain the disputes within the Shiite political establishment. link

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Tishwash:  What will he choose? The Sudanese government faces Washington's demands to cut the salaries of the Popular Mobilization Forces and target the factions.

The head of the Reconstruction and Development bloc, Bahaa al-Araji, revealed that there is a division within the coordination framework regarding the mechanism for choosing the next prime minister, between the “signatures” system adopted by the State of Law bloc and “direct voting,” stressing that Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani is facing harsh American conditions, including cutting the salaries of the Popular Mobilization Forces and striking some factions .

Al-Araji said in a televised interview followed by Al-Sa’a Network that “Monday’s framework session resulted in the submission of 6 signatures from the State of Law coalition in favor of Basim Al-Badri, while Hadi Al-Amiri proposed the option of direct voting instead of signatures to choose the Prime Minister, and after his intervention the discussion moved to the selection mechanism .”

He added that "the proposed new mechanism is based on the candidate obtaining two-thirds of the votes of the leaders of the framework, and in the second stage two-thirds of the members of the House of Representatives from the framework. It was proposed by Al-Amiri, Al-Hakim and Al-Khazali, but it was rejected by the State of Law, and the discussion about it was postponed to the next session ."

He added that "the upcoming coordination framework meeting will not discuss the selection of the prime minister unless the selection mechanism is decided, with the direct voting option being the most likely to be fair ."

He pointed out that “Al-Asadi did not sign, despite being part of the Reconstruction and Development bloc, and expressed conditional approval related to the signing of other leaders in favor of Bassem Al-Badri, while the bloc did not adopt the mechanism of signatures at all and preferred to vote by raising hands as usual .”

He stressed that "choosing the prime minister is not the most important thing at the moment, but rather the unity of the coordinating framework, especially in light of international discussions related to the Iraqi political system ."

He added that "Al-Sudani prepared his government program before the elections, and it included restricting weapons to the state, and he rejects dealing with the issue with violence and prefers political and legal solutions ."

He explained that "the United States had put forward two main demands during the past period, which were to cut off the salaries of the Popular Mobilization Forces and to strike some factions, which Al-Sudani rejected ."

He explained that "the current stage includes American conditions, which does not mean accepting them, but it requires dealing with them under complex circumstances," noting that "some strikes that targeted diplomatic interests contributed to strained relations and the departure of a number of missions ."

Al-Araji pointed out that “about 90% of diplomatic missions have left Iraq, especially the Arab ones, as a result of attacks targeting some countries, which has negatively affected the political and economic reality, including the delay in the flow of dollars into the country  link

Tishwash:  Sudanese advisor reveals two paths to enhance economic stability: food security is guaranteed.

On Friday, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, the economic advisor to the Iraqi Prime Minister, affirmed that the level of food security in the country remains within a safe range, pointing to two main trends that contribute to strengthening overall economic stability and providing a level of reassurance in conducting daily economic life.

Saleh explained to Shafaq News Agency that "the first trend is the continuation of the policy of broad government support for prices, especially in the basic paragraphs that are governing in the current fiscal policy."

According to Saleh, this support includes "the food basket and strategic food stocks, in addition to support for medicine and the agricultural sector, especially grain production."

He pointed out that "support also extends to fuel, social, economic and health services, without interruption," noting that "official indicators issued by the Ministry of Trade confirm that the level of food security in the country is still within a safe range, which enhances the stability of domestic markets."

He explained that "the second trend relates to the status of foreign reserves, which remain at stable levels and are sufficient to cover the external financing needs of trade for a period exceeding one year."

According to the government advisor, "This stability is based on oil export revenues, which are the country's main source of foreign currency."

He added that "the value of foreign reserves is estimated at about $100 billion, which provides a relative margin of safety in managing external obligations and supports the stability of the exchange rate."

Regarding external challenges, Saleh noted that "this stability comes amid delicate regional and international circumstances, with escalating concerns about geopolitical tensions, particularly those related to the potential disruption of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, which is one of the most vital waterways for global oil trade," suggesting that these tensions will have a limited impact in the medium term.

He stressed that "monetary management plays a pivotal role in achieving a balance between providing liquidity and maintaining price stability, as well as meeting the market's need for foreign currency," noting that "this balanced policy represents an essential tool for containing inflationary pressures."

Saleh added that "these measures contribute to maintaining relative stability in the national economy, despite regional challenges, until tensions subside and conditions return to normal."

The war that broke out on February 28, 2026, between the United States and Israel on one side, and Iran on the other, caused an almost complete paralysis of traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, the passage through which about 4.5% of total annual global trade passes, leading to a decline in navigation to very low levels.

As a result of the disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, Iraqi oil production has fallen sharply from 4.3 million barrels per day to 1.3 million barrels per day.

This decline has led to Iraqi exports falling to less than 800,000 barrels per day, and a loss of $128 million per day after oil production stopped, according to the "Eco Iraq" observatory.

Around 20 million barrels of oil pass through this strategic strait daily, and its closure has caused an increase in shipping and insurance costs and a rise in oil prices, raising fears of global economic repercussions.

A recent study published in the international journal Nature Food on April 16 showed that Iraq is among six countries unable to meet their food needs locally, amid a global gap in achieving self-sufficiency.

The study showed that achieving food security is not limited to the production of calories, but requires an integrated system that includes seven main categories: basic grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, fish, and legumes.

She stressed that economic wealth does not guarantee food security, as many rich countries rely on imports to meet their needs, given the challenges of local production and natural resources. link

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Saturday Morning 4-25-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

ISRAEL–LEBANON CEASEFIRE EXTENDED: REGIONAL CONFLICT TIES DEEPEN AS GLOBAL RISKS RISE

Ongoing Middle East tensions highlight fragile stability, energy risks, and growing strain on the global financial system

Overview

Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a three-week ceasefire extension, brokered by Donald Trump, as part of broader efforts to contain a multi-front regional conflict involving Iran and Hezbollah. While the agreement signals a pause, it does not represent a lasting resolution.

The conflict has evolved into a complex geopolitical standoff, with tensions unfolding simultaneously across land and sea. Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah continues at reduced intensity, while a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran remains in place.

At the center of global concern is the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy corridor through which roughly 20% of global oil and LNG flows. Disruptions here have already impacted energy markets and raised inflation concerns.

This situation reflects a broader shift toward interconnected conflicts with global financial consequences, where regional instability directly influences markets.

Key Developments

1. Ceasefire Extension Provides Temporary Stability

The agreement delays escalation but does not resolve underlying tensions.
• Three-week extension agreed between Israel and Lebanon
• Hostilities continue at lower intensity levels
• The ceasefire acts as a temporary containment measure

2. Hezbollah’s Absence Weakens Enforcement

The lack of participation complicates stability on the ground.
• Hezbollah was not part of the negotiations
• Continued rocket and drone attacks challenge the truce
• Enforcement remains fragile and inconsistent

3. Strait of Hormuz Drives Global Risk

Energy markets remain highly sensitive to developments.
• Around one-fifth of global energy supply passes through the strait
• Disruptions have already pushed oil prices higher
• Shipping risks create ongoing inflation and trade pressures

4. U.S.–Iran Dynamics Remain Unresolved

Diplomatic progress is uncertain despite temporary pauses.
• A separate ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is fragile
• Planned negotiations have failed to materialize
• The U.S. maintains military pressure alongside diplomacy

5. Global Alliances Show Signs of Strain

International coordination is becoming more difficult.
• Divisions within NATO are emerging
• Tensions may weaken unified responses
• This fragmentation increases global uncertainty

Why It Matters

This situation highlights how regional conflicts are now tightly interconnected, making isolated solutions ineffective. The overlap between Lebanon, Iran, and maritime tensions creates a layered risk environment for global markets.

Energy supply concerns tied to the Strait of Hormuz show how geopolitical instability feeds directly into inflation, trade disruption, and market volatility.

From a policy perspective, weakening coordination among global powers signals a shift toward a more fragmented and unpredictable system.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

• Energy-driven inflation impacts currency value globally
• Oil price increases can strengthen exporters and weaken importers
• The U.S. dollar remains tied to geopolitical influence
• Instability may accelerate currency diversification trends

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Energy Routes as Financial Power Levers

Control over key corridors like the Strait of Hormuz reinforces how energy access shapes global financial influence, inflation, and currency stability.

• Pillar 2: Fragmentation of Global Coordination

Rising divisions among major powers point to a less unified, more multipolar system, increasing systemic volatility and accelerating structural change.

Conclusion

The ceasefire extension provides short-term relief but does not change the broader trajectory of the conflict. Continued tensions and unresolved negotiations point to a prolonged period of instability.

Rather than signaling peace, this moment represents a strategic pause within a wider power struggle, where all sides are recalibrating their positions.

The broader takeaway is clear: regional conflicts are now global financial events, capable of reshaping markets, policy decisions, and the future structure of the international system.

This is not just a regional ceasefire — it is a signal of how interconnected and fragile the global financial system has become.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Modern Diplomacy — "Israel and Lebanon Extend Ceasefire as Trump Pushes for Best Deal with Iran"

• Reuters — "Middle East Ceasefire Developments and Energy Market Impact"

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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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Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Saturday Morning 4-25-26

An Economist Warns Of A Financial Crisis Threatening Iraq At The Beginning Of Next Month

Clock Network -  Economic and banking expert Mustafa Hantoush warned on Wednesday of a crisis that may begin at the start of next month, when Iraq is supposed to receive about $7 billion in oil revenues .

Hantoush said in a televised interview followed by Al-Sa’a Network that “a crisis may begin at the beginning of next month, when Iraq is supposed to receive about $7 billion in oil revenues, but the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the cessation of exports may reduce revenues to about $2 billion, causing two main problems: financing salaries and financing trade.”

He added that "the Americans used to send a plane every two or three months carrying $500 million or $1 billion, and since 2022 the money received during the whole year has become only about $5 billion ."

He explained that "these funds cover only one case, which is selling dollars to travelers, in addition to the fact that the central bank has enough liquidity to finance this activity for two years ."

He explained that "these funds, if they actually arrive, represent only 5% of oil revenues, and if the United States wanted to actually influence these matters, it would have manipulated the large sums that come in the form of transfers and letters of credit," noting that "Iraq sells 97% of its oil exports through these banking mechanisms, which do not arrive in the country in cash ."

He pointed out that "the state is currently discussing the deficit reduction law, which is a loan to finance salaries until the end of the year, but the law does not have consensus due to disagreements between the government and parliament, which may lead to a delay in its approval ."

He added that "if the law is delayed, the government may resort to funding salaries from current revenues, which include about 3 trillion dinars from oil, and about 1 trillion dinars from internal revenues, such as ports and others, while a deficit of about 3 trillion and 500 billion dinars remains ."

He added that "Iraq currently exports between 300,000 and 350,000 barrels per day, 300,000 through the port of Ceyhan, and 50,000 through Syria, while the Ministry of Oil is working on developing a new export line through Mosul and Fishkhabur, which may add 250,000 barrels per day, bringing the total to about 600,000 barrels, compared to 3.6 million barrels previously ."

He stressed that "the only solution for Iraq is to resume exports through the Strait of Hormuz, as the rest of the solutions are temporary ." https://alssaa.com/post/show/51101-خبير-اقتصادي-يحذر-من-أزمة-مالية-تهدد-العراق-مطلع-الشهر-المقبل

The Dollar In Iraq Is Under Siege... Washington Scrutinizes Dubai Transfers And Halts Shipments

Last updated: April 23, 2026   Independent/- Private and informed sources revealed developments they described as sensitive and dangerous in the Iraqi dollar file, indicating that the United States has begun, in the past few hours, to suddenly tighten the path of financial transfers leaving Iraq, especially those heading to Dubai, in a move that coincided with the suspension of dollar shipments to Iraq.

 According to information obtained by Al-Mustaqilla, the American authorities have imposed strict scrutiny on financial transfers originating from Baghdad to the UAE, amid suspicions of mixing operations or transfers of unclear origin, which prompted Washington to tighten control urgently and directly.

The source confirmed that this sudden scrutiny is one of the main reasons behind the suspension of dollar shipments to Iraq in recent hours, reflecting growing American concern about the mechanisms for transferring funds out of the country and their final uses. 

Available data indicates that current inspection procedures focus on tracking the movement of funds and ensuring the integrity of banking procedures related to foreign transfers, in light of increasing international pressure to tighten control over the Iraqi financial system and prevent any uses that may fall under illegal activities or raise suspicions among international regulatory bodies.

In contrast to these developments, no official clarification has yet been issued by the Iraqi government or the Central Bank of Iraq, which widens the circle of questions about the truth of what is happening, the size of the crisis, and its possible repercussions on the local market, especially since the dollar issue is one of the most sensitive issues in the Iraqi economy, given its direct link to the exchange rate, imports, and monetary stability.

Observers believe that the next phase may witness stricter measures on foreign transfers, and perhaps modifications to the dollar management mechanism within Iraq, if American pressure continues without reaching clear financial or diplomatic solutions to limit the escalation.

The Iraqi public, along with economic and financial circles, are awaiting an official position that reveals the truth about these developments, at a time when fears are growing about repercussions that may extend to exchange rates, markets and commercial activity, if the suspension of dollar shipments continues or restrictions imposed on foreign financial transfers expand.    https://mustaqila.com/الدولار-في-العراق-تحت-الحصار-واشنطن-تد/

Google Plans To Invest $40 Billion In Artificial Intelligence Company Anthropic

Money and Business  Google plans to invest up to $40 billion in artificial intelligence firm Anthropic, the company confirmed on Friday, paving the way for a long-term alliance between the two American companies.

This investment comes as part of a partnership in which Anthropic utilizes Google's chips and cloud computing services.
An Anthropic representative confirmed that the agreement includes an initial investment of $10 billion from Google, with the remaining $30 billion contingent on performance and the achievement of objectives.

Amazon is investing in Anthropic.

This announcement comes just days after Amazon revealed a plan to strengthen its collaboration with Anthropic with a new investment of $5 billion, plus another $20 billion if performance targets are met.

Anthropic announced its commitment to spending over $100 billion on Amazon's cloud computing services to support artificial intelligence over the next decade.

Anthropic is among the AI ​​companies investing tens of billions of dollars in computing infrastructure as it strives to become a leader in the technology.

Anthropic   revealed in early April that it had tripled its annual revenue to over $30 billion, surpassing OpenAI for the first time.

Anthropic CEO Dario Amode visited the White House last week, where the atmosphere was reportedly cordial, following the company's refusal to grant the Pentagon unconditional use of its AI models.

Earlier this month, Anthropic announced Mythos, its latest AI model, which it had previously refrained from releasing due to potential cybersecurity risks and concerns about its potential misuse by hackers.

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=68277

Iran, Iraq Eye $20B Trade Target With New Barter System Plan

2026-04-25 Shafaq News- Tehran   Iran and Iraq are moving to establish a barter system for goods and services as part of efforts to expand bilateral trade, the head of the Iran–Iraq Joint Chamber of Commerce said on Saturday.

Yahya Al-Eshaq indicated that the initiative forms part of the chamber’s strategic plans for the year, aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two countries.

Iraq remains one of the main destinations for Iran’s non-oil exports, importing goods, technical and engineering services, and energy worth billions of dollars annually, he noted, describing the relationship as strategically significant on both commercial and geopolitical levels.

The cooperation has supported economic growth, job creation, infrastructure development, and closer economic integration, supported by shared religious and cultural ties and a long land border that facilitates trade and investment.

The chamber is targeting an increase in bilateral trade to $20 billion annually, a goal that requires addressing key challenges including trade imbalances, administrative and bureaucratic hurdles, and the impact of sanctions.

Proposed measures include launching a barter mechanism for goods and services, creating a joint investment platform, establishing a financial settlement system for traders, setting up a clearing center, and accelerating export processes to Iraq while facilitating imports into Iran.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iran-Iraq-eye-20B-trade-target-with-new-barter-system-plan

The Man Who Ran US Treasury In 2008 Just Told Everyone To Prepare...

The Man Who Ran US Treasury In 2008 Just Told Everyone To Prepare...

MarkMoss:  4-23-2026

The man who ran the US Treasury back in 2008, just told the country to prepare for the break the glass plan. Now, hat's the headline but that's not the real story.

The real story is what the Treasury did quietly, just one hour later. I'm talking about $15 billion bought back in a single morning.

In the world of global finance, few voices carry as much weight as Henry Paulson. As the former US Treasury Secretary who navigated the 2008 financial crisis, his insights into market stability are often viewed as a bellwether for what’s to come.

Recently, Paulson has issued a stark warning: the United States is inevitably heading toward a significant financial “wall.”

Unlike the reactive measures taken during the 2008 subprime mortgage crisis, Paulson is urging policymakers to prepare a “break the glass” emergency plan in advance. This isn’t just theory; we are already seeing the gears move behind the scenes.

Shortly after his warning, the US Treasury quietly repurchased $15 billion of its own debt in a single day—a dramatic escalation in buyback activity designed to control yields and prevent a sudden dislocation in the debt market.

To understand why this is happening, we have to look at the mechanics of the “debt spiral.” Historically, the US has relied on foreign nations like China and Japan to be the primary buyers of its debt. However, trust in these “printable” assets is waning. Factors such as geopolitical tensions and the freezing of foreign bank accounts have led these major holders to reduce their Treasury positions by significant percentages.

When demand for debt drops, the government must offer higher yields to attract buyers. This increases the cost of borrowing for the nation, often forcing the Federal Reserve to intervene by printing money to purchase the remaining debt. This cycle—increased money supply leading to currency devaluation and inflation—creates a feedback loop that has historically destabilized economies ranging from the UK and Greece to Argentina.

As sovereign nations distance themselves from US debt, a new trend is emerging. Instead of hoarding paper currency, countries like Saudi Arabia and India are significantly increasing their gold reserves.

Gold represents a “scarce” or “unprintable” asset—something that cannot be devalued by a central bank’s printing press or seized easily through digital intervention.

This philosophy is also taking root in the corporate world. Most notably, the company formerly known as MicroStrategy has transitioned into a “Bitcoin development company,” becoming the largest corporate holder of the asset. By accumulating nearly 4% of the total Bitcoin supply, they are championing a new treasury management philosophy: moving away from short-term stock picking and toward long-term asset preservation.

The fundamental question every investor must now ask is one of asset quality: “How much of my portfolio is in assets that can be printed or seized, versus those that are scarce and secure?”

Printable Assets: These include cash, bonds, and traditional debt instruments. While liquid, they are vulnerable to inflation and the political risks of the issuing body.

Unprintable Assets: These include gold, productive land, and Bitcoin. These are assets with a fixed or limited supply that provide a hedge against currency devaluation.

In light of these shifts, financial experts are urging individuals to develop their own “Treasury Doctrine.” This involves a strategic allocation between printable and unprintable assets, tailored to your specific long-term goals rather than following the daily noise of the stock market.

The warnings from figures like Henry Paulson and the proactive moves by the US Treasury suggest that the global financial regime is undergoing a fundamental transition. While governments debate emergency protocols, savvy corporations and sovereign nations are already repositioning their capital into scarce, durable assets.

For the modern investor, the message is clear: the era of “blindly holding cash” may be coming to an end. Understanding the difference between printable and unprintable wealth is no longer just a theoretical exercise—it is a necessary step for navigating the financial landscape of the future.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tO_KDxjJoE

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Friday Afternoon 4-24-26

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Friday Afternoon 4-24-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

Market Strain Rising: Oil Near $100 as Shipping Disruptions Intensify

Escalating tensions in key trade routes are driving energy prices higher, increasing inflation risk and pressuring global financial stability

OVERVIEW (KEY POINTS)

Global markets are reacting to renewed disruption in critical shipping lanes, pushing oil prices toward the $100 level and triggering heightened volatility across financial systems. The instability centers around constrained movement through major energy corridors.

This is happening now as geopolitical tensions continue to impact global shipping activity and supply chains, reducing the flow of oil and increasing uncertainty around future availability. The result is a rapid repricing of energy risk.

Key players include global energy producers, shipping operators, and central banks monitoring the impact of rising oil prices on inflation and economic growth.

The broader implication is clear: energy-driven volatility is feeding directly into financial markets, increasing the likelihood of broader systemic stress.

KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1. Oil Prices Climb Toward $100

Energy markets are reacting to tightening supply conditions.

• Crude prices approaching $95–$100 per barrel

• Reflects rising concern over supply disruption and demand imbalance

2. Shipping Disruptions Limit Global Supply

Key maritime routes remain unstable.

• Reduced vessel movement through critical energy corridors

• Ongoing risk of further restrictions or delays

3. Inflation Pressures Re-Emerge

Higher energy costs are feeding into the economy.

• Fuel prices contributing to rising global inflation expectations

• Increased costs impacting production and transportation

4. Central Banks Face Renewed Pressure

Policy decisions are becoming more complex.

• Higher inflation limits ability to cut interest rates

• Growth concerns conflict with inflation control efforts

WHY IT MATTERS

This development highlights the central role of energy in global financial stability. When oil prices rise sharply, the effects cascade through the economy, impacting everything from transportation to manufacturing.

Markets are increasingly sensitive to geopolitical disruptions, leading to volatility in commodities, currencies, and equities. This reduces predictability and increases risk.

For policymakers, the situation presents a difficult balance between controlling inflation and supporting economic growth. Missteps could amplify instability.

At the system level, this reinforces a growing pattern: external shocks are driving financial conditions more than internal policy decisions.

WHY IT MATTERS TO FOREIGN CURRENCY HOLDERS

• Energy-importing currencies may weaken as costs rise

• Purchasing power declines due to inflation pressures

• Capital flows may shift toward stronger or resource-backed economies

• Exchange rate volatility increases across global markets

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE GLOBAL RESET

• Pillar 1: Energy-Driven Financial Stress

Rising oil prices reinforce a system where external supply shocks drive economic conditions, increasing systemic vulnerability.

• Pillar 2: Structural Pressure on Monetary Policy

Central banks are constrained by competing priorities, contributing to long-term shifts in how financial systems are managed.

CONCLUSION

The move toward $100 oil underscores the fragility of the current global system, where supply disruptions can quickly translate into financial instability.

As energy prices rise, the pressure spreads across markets, affecting inflation, growth, and policy decisions. The situation remains fluid, with significant implications for the global economy.

This is not an isolated event—it reflects a broader trend of increasing sensitivity to geopolitical and supply chain disruptions.

When energy prices surge, the entire financial system feels the strain—and the pressure for structural change grows stronger.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters — "Oil prices rise toward $100 as supply concerns mount"

• Reuters — "Shipping disruptions add to inflation pressure in global markets"

~~~~~~~~~~

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Iraq News Posted by Tishwash at TNT 4-24-2026

TNT:

Tishwash:  The Iraqi parliament adjourns its session and decides to extend its legislative term.

 The House of Representatives adjourned its regular session on Thursday, after completing the discussion of a number of legislative items, as part of its work.

The council's media department said in a press statement: "The House of Representatives has begun the first reading of the proposed Juvenile Welfare Law, and has completed reading 50 articles within it."

She added that “the Council also completed the first reading of the proposed first amendment to Law No. (18) of 2018 concerning the protection of teachers, instructors, supervisors and educational counselors.”

She noted that “the council also decided to extend its legislative session for 30 days.”  link

Tishwash:  Framework delayed PM decision to await US-Iran talks outcome, politician says

Leaders of the Coordination Framework postponed naming a prime minister candidate at a recent meeting in order to await the outcome of negotiations between Washington and Tehran, a politician familiar with the discussions has said.

“The apparent reason was the dispute over the two-thirds mechanism, but the underlying reason was waiting for the U.S.-Iran negotiations and what they will lead to,” Aziz al-Rubaie, secretary-general of the National Line Movement, said in a televised interview.

Rubaie said the meeting, held at the home of Hikma Movement leader Ammar al-Hakim, included Accountability and Justice Commission head Basim al-Badri waiting in a nearby room with a political vision prepared in the event he was named as a candidate. Leaders decided at the last moment to delay the announcement, he said.

Rubaie predicted the framework would not reach conclusions at its Friday meeting either, adding that Sudani and others may yet propose former Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi as a compromise candidate. He attributed the deadlock to “stubbornness and narcissism” among political leaders and said reliance on external actors had distorted decision-making. “We have reached a point where we wait for a signal from the Americans or approval from the Iranians to choose the prime minister,” he said.

The Coordination Framework’s nomination of Maliki in January drew direct U.S. opposition, with Trump warning Washington could halt support for Iraq if Maliki returned to power. The Dawa Party has maintained his candidacy “has not been withdrawn,” while rival factions say eight blocs back incumbent Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani against four for Maliki. Badri and Ihsan al-Awadi, director of Sudani’s office, remain under consideration as alternatives.

President Nizar Amedi has 15 days from his April 12 inauguration under Article 76 to task the largest bloc’s nominee with forming a government.  link

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

Tishwash:  Mahmoud Dagher: Trust between banks and the public is the foundation of financial stability and economic support.

Dr. Mahmoud Dagher, Chairman of the Board of Al-Nasik Islamic Bank, stressed that strengthening trust between banks and the public is one of the most important gains that the banking sector should achieve, noting that achieving success and financial stability cannot be achieved without building a strong relationship based on trust and transparency between banking institutions and citizens.

During his speech at the Governance, Risk Management and Compliance Forum, Dagher explained that consolidating this trust requires the actual application of governance and compliance principles, as they are the basic pillar for regulating banking work and ensuring transparency, accountability and commitment to modern professional and administrative standards.

He added that boards of directors bear a pivotal responsibility in this regard, by setting clear policies, following up on their implementation, and developing the banking work environment in a way that contributes to raising performance efficiency and achieving stability, which directly reflects on restoring public confidence in banks and strengthening the role of the banking sector in supporting the national economy.  link

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

Tishwash:  Urgent | Urgent warning from the International Monetary Fund: Iraq is the country most affected by the war and has no options for dealing with its economic repercussions.

 A senior official at the International Monetary Fund said that Iraq does not have many options to deal with the economic repercussions of the Iran war other than reducing spending and temporarily resorting to dollar reserves, until a government is formed that can approve borrowing or request formal financing from international institutions.

Jihad Azour, the IMF’s Middle East and Central Asia director, told Al-Sharq platform on Thursday, as reported by Iraq Observer: “There is communication between the IMF and the Iraqi authorities to help the country mitigate the crisis.” He added: “There are discussions, as you know, they are now in the process of choosing a prime minister and forming a government. They currently have very limited ability to request financing or even to borrow due to legislative restrictions.”

He added: “They have to manage spending now in a way that prioritizes the most urgent needs. I think they are already using reserves, which is a temporary solution to a crisis that predates the start of the current war.”

Azour explained that the challenges Iraq is currently facing are due to “years of fiscal expansion,” noting that: “The Iraqi government was already facing severe financial constraints before the war due to a combination of excessive spending and very limited non-oil revenues,” noting that the IMF estimates the economy will contract by about 0.4% in 2025. link

Tishwash:  Reassurance to employees: Expert says there is no need to worry about salaries despite the disruption in dollar shipments.

Economic expert Nabil Al-Marsoumi confirmed that there is no concern about employee salaries, pointing out that the current crisis is related to the disruption of dollar shipments and not their complete interruption.

Al-Marsoumi said, during his appearance on the “On the Ruler” program broadcast by Al-Furat satellite channel, that: “There are two narratives regarding the issue, the first links it to the circumstances of the war and the difficulty of transferring funds, while the other indicates that it is a measure related to Iraq’s position on regional tensions,” explaining that “this will not significantly affect meeting the demand of travelers, as it represents only about 7% of the total dollar funding and can be covered for several months with the availability of cash reserves at the Central Bank.”

He added that "the continuation of the disruption and its transformation into an American decision may affect the parallel market, especially with about $30 billion deposited in international banks," warning that "the real fear lies in the possibility of stopping bank transfers, given the direct impact this would have on imports."

He pointed out that "the decrease in the number of travelers and the volume of remittances due to the security situation in the region will limit the effects of the crisis," suggesting that "the repercussions of the rise in the dollar exchange rate will be limited at the moment."

He added that "Iraq is incurring daily financial losses as a result of the war," noting that "salaries are secured through the Central Bank's reserves, with options including printing currency, despite the inflationary risks it carries."

Regarding the energy file, Al-Marsoumi stressed that "the cooking gas crisis in Iraq is real as a result of the decline in oil production," noting that "increasing crude oil production will contribute to addressing the gap between supply and demand, while the shutdown of some oil fields and the difficulties in rehabilitating infrastructure have contributed to the loss of significant oil revenues."

Al-Marsoumi concluded by saying that “relying on exporting oil via tankers is a poor, expensive and dangerous means of transport, in addition to causing traffic jams; but it is the only option currently available to Iraq in the absence of alternatives,” indicating that “the cost of transport and shipping reaches about $15 per barrel.”  link

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Friday Morning 4-24-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Ceasefire Illusion: Power Struggle Intensifies Across Middle East

Temporary truce masks deeper geopolitical conflict as control over energy routes and regional influence drives long-term strategy

OVERVIEW (KEY POINTS)

A recently extended ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon is being viewed not as a resolution, but as a temporary pause in a much larger geopolitical confrontation involving Iran, the United States, and regional actors. Tensions remain active beneath the surface despite formal agreements.

This is happening now as the United States signals a long-term negotiation strategy with Iran, balancing military pressure with diplomacy. At the same time, Iran is leveraging its position in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy chokepoint, to maintain influence.

Key players include the United States, Iran, Israel, and Hezbollah, all operating within a highly interconnected conflict environment where actions in one region quickly impact another.

The broader implication is clear: the ceasefire reflects strategic recalibration, not de-escalation, with major consequences for global energy markets and financial stability.

KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1. Ceasefire Extended but Conflict Persists

The Israel-Lebanon ceasefire has been prolonged without resolving underlying tensions.

• Hostilities continue at lower intensity levels

• Both sides treating the ceasefire as a temporary mechanism, not a final agreement

2. U.S. Signals Long-Term Negotiation Strategy

The United States is pursuing a controlled approach.

• Military action delayed to allow diplomatic engagement

• Strategy reflects pressure combined with negotiation leverage

3. Iran Leverages Strategic Geography

Tehran continues to apply pressure through key transit routes.

• Strait of Hormuz remains a critical bargaining tool

• Disruptions to shipping highlight global vulnerability to regional actions

4. Regional Conflicts Become Interconnected

Local conflicts are influencing broader dynamics.

• Hezbollah’s alignment with Iran links Lebanon tensions to wider strategy

• Israel’s actions tied to broader security concerns involving Iran

5. Internal Dynamics Add Uncertainty

Leadership transitions are shaping strategic positioning.

• Iran emphasizing internal unity amid leadership changes

• Stability narrative supports external negotiation posture

WHY IT MATTERS

This situation underscores how geopolitical conflicts can influence global financial conditions, especially when they involve critical energy routes. Even limited instability can have outsized economic effects.

Markets are sensitive to disruptions in oil supply, leading to volatility in energy prices, currencies, and equities. This creates uncertainty for investors and policymakers alike.

For policymakers, the challenge lies in managing both immediate risks and long-term strategic goals. Balancing diplomacy with deterrence becomes increasingly complex in a multi-layered conflict.

At the system level, this reflects a world where regional conflicts have global financial consequences, reinforcing interconnected risk.

WHY IT MATTERS TO FOREIGN CURRENCY HOLDERS

• Energy-driven inflation may weaken currencies in importing nations

• Safe-haven currencies may strengthen during uncertainty

• Purchasing power may decline as fuel costs rise

• Exchange rate volatility increases amid geopolitical risk

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE GLOBAL RESET

• Pillar 1: Geopolitical Control of Energy Flows

Control over strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz reinforces the role of physical resources in financial power, influencing global economic stability.

• Pillar 2: Prolonged Strategic Competition

The conflict reflects a shift toward long-duration geopolitical competition, where temporary agreements mask ongoing structural rivalry.

CONCLUSION

The extension of the ceasefire offers only temporary relief in a deeply complex conflict. Underlying tensions remain unresolved, and key actors continue to position themselves for long-term advantage.

As negotiations unfold, the situation remains fluid, with energy routes and regional alliances playing a central role in shaping outcomes.

This is not a step toward resolution—it is a pause within a broader strategic contest.

When ceasefires pause conflict without resolving it, the underlying pressures continue to build beneath the surface.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Modern Diplomacy — "Ceasefire Extension Masks a Wider Power Struggle as Trump Signals Long Game with Iran"

• Reuters — "Middle East tensions persist despite ceasefire extension and ongoing negotiations"

~~~~~~~~~~

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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Thank you Dinar Recaps

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Friday Morning 4-23-26

Oil Futures Rise As Iran Tensions And Strikes Fuel Market Fears

2026-04-23    Shafaq News   Crude oil futures spiked $5 a barrel on Thursday after reports that air defenses were engaging targets​over Tehran and of a power struggle between Iran's hardliners and moderates.

After spiking, the benchmarks pared gains.   Brent crude futures ‌settled at $105.07 a barrel, gaining $3.16 or 3.1%. West Texas Intermediate futures finished at $95.85 a barrel, up $2.89, or 3.11%.

IRAN NEGOTIATOR QUITS

Israeli radio reported the resignation of Iran's top negotiator, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, from the team speaking to the U.S. through Pakistani intermediaries about ending the war.

Qalibaf's resignation was seen as a victory for hard line elements ​within the Iranian government.

Iranian news services said air defenses in Tehran were engaging targets over the city. That followed reports of drone attacks ​on Iranian Kurdish opponents of the Tehran government at a base in Iraq.

Iran flaunted its tightened grip over ⁠the Strait of Hormuz with video of its commandos storming a huge cargo ship, after the collapse of peace talks that Washington ​had hoped would open the important shipping corridor.

U.S. President Donald Trump said in a social media post that he had ordered the U.S. Navy "to ​shoot and kill any boat" mining the strait.

John Kilduff, partner with Again Capital, said the market was being buffeted by alternating news reports of Trump extending the ceasefire this week and threatening to sink Iranian mine-laying ships.

"Some people call it headline bingo, I call it headline roulette," Kilduff said. "I fear we're going to wake ​up one day and realize we're in a much worse (supply) position and prices are going to reset to a much higher level."

STRAIT OF ​HORMUZ TRANSIT STILL RESTRICTED

While Trump extended a ceasefire between the countries after a request by Pakistani mediators, Iran and the U.S. are still restricting transit of ‌ships ⁠through the strait, which carried about 20% of daily global oil supplies until the start of the war on February 28.

Trump, without providing evidence, said on Thursday the U.S. had "total control" over the strait, and that it was "sealed up tight" until Iran made a deal.

Iran seized two ships in the waterway on Wednesday. Trump has maintained a U.S. Navy blockade of Iran's trade by sea.

However, about 10.7 million barrels of Iranian crude​exports crossed through the strait and left ​the area blockaded by the ⁠U.S. Navy between April 13 and 21, data analytics company Vortexa said.

The U.S. military has intercepted at least three Iranian-flagged tankers in Asian waters and is redirecting them away from positions near India, Malaysia and Sri Lanka, ​shipping and security sources said on Wednesday.

Trump has not set an end date for the extended ​ceasefire, White House press ⁠secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters.

Phil Flynn, senior analyst with Price Futures Group, said prices were constrained by confidence in the crude market.

"The market continues to believe we're going to find a way through this," Flynn said.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas on Thursday said a survey of 120 oil ⁠and natural ​gas company executives this month found 39% expect traffic through the strait to return ​to normal by August and 26% expect normal traffic through the waterway by November.

Twenty percent of the executives surveyed between April 15 and 20 believe traffic will be normal ​by May, according to the Dallas Fed. (Reuters)  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-futures-rise-as-Iran-tensions-and-strikes-fuel-market-fears

Oil Spikes 17% In A Week As Iran Tensions Shake Global Supply

2026-04-24 Shafaq News   Oil prices rose on Friday due to fears of a renewed military escalation in the Middle East after Iran released footage of commandos ‌boarding a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz and on reports Tehran's air defenses had engaged “hostile targets.”

Brent crude futures rose 99 cents, or 0.94%, to $106.06 a barrel at 0410 GMT, while West Texas Intermediate futures were up 71 cents, or 0.73%, at $96.56.

Brent rose 17.13% throughout the course of the week while WTI rose 15.13%, the second-largest weekly gain since the war began.

The resulting closure of the Strait of Hormuz after the beginning of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran cut around 20% of the world’s supply ⁠of oil and liquefied natural gas.

Both benchmark contracts settled up more than 3% on Thursday and jumped $5 a barrel after reports that air defenses were engaging targets over Tehran and of a power struggle between Iran's hardliners and moderates.

U.S. President Donald Trump said that Iran may have loaded up its weaponry "a little bit" during the two-week ceasefire, but added that the U.S. military could eliminate it in just a single day.

The ceasefire phase is increasingly looking like a preparatory phase for war, Haitong Futures said in a report. If U.S.-Iran talks fail to make key progress by the end of April and fighting resumes, oil prices could climb to new highs for the year, it added.

Iran on Thursday posted video of commandos in a speed boat storming a huge cargo ship after the collapse of peace talks, underlining its grip ‌over the ⁠Strait of Hormuz through which 20% of global oil and gas usually flows.

As investors and governments around the world look for an enduring peace, Trump said he would not set a "timetable" for ending the conflict with Iran and that he wanted to make "a great deal."

"Don't rush me," he said when asked how long he was willing to wait for a long-term peace deal with Iran.

Prolonged disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could push global crude and ⁠refined-product inventories below five-year seasonal lows by late May or early June, adding a supply-risk premium back into oil prices, said Mingyu Gao, chief researcher for energy and chemicals at China Futures.

Trump also announced in a social media post on Thursday that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to extend their ceasefire by ⁠three weeks after a high-level meeting between representatives of both countries in the White House Oval Office.

(Reuters)   https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-spikes-17-in-a-week-as-Iran-tensions-shake-global-supply

Gold Falls 3.5% Weekly On Higher-For-Longer Rate Fears

2026-04-24Shafaq News   Gold prices fell on Friday and were on ‌track for a weekly drop, as elevated oil prices fuelled fears of inflation and higher-for-longer interest rates amid stalled U.S.-Iran peace talks.

Spot gold was down 0.7% at $4,661.33 per ounce, as of 0426 GMT. The metal is down 3.5% so far this week after a four-week winning run.

U.S. gold futures for June delivery fell 1% to $4,676.50.

Brent crude prices have risen over 17% so ⁠far this week to hover above $105 a barrel, as the key Strait of Hormuz remained largely closed despite an extension of the Iran ceasefire.

"Gold is still being trapped in this sideways range, ‌between ⁠the 50-day moving average at around $4,900 and at the bottom, the 20-day moving average at $4,645 level," Wong said, adding that "everything now boils down to what's going on in the Middle East."

Iran flaunted its tightened grip over the strait on Thursday with a video of commandos in a speedboat storming a huge cargo ship, after the collapse ⁠of peace talks that Washington had hoped would open one of the world's most important shipping corridors.

Trump told reporters that he believed Tehran wanted to make a deal but that its leadership was in turmoil. He said ⁠he was in no hurry for a deal, but if Iran did not want one, "I'll finish it up militarily."

The U.S. dollar is up 0.8% so far this week, making greenback-priced bullion more ⁠expensive for other currency holders.

The benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury yields have gained over 2% this week, increasing the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding bullion.

Spot silver fell 1% to $74.69 per ounce, platinum lost 1.1% to $1,984.60, while palladium was down 0.3% at $1,464.02.

(Reuters)   https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Gold-falls-3-5-weekly-on-higher-for-longer-rate-fears

Dollar Rises 0.6% As Iran Tensions Shake Markets

2026-04-24    Shafaq News   The dollar was on track for its first weekly gain in three weeks on Friday, as stalled peace negotiations between the U.S. and Iran dampened hopes for an immediate easing of Middle ‌East tensions.

While Lebanon and Israel extended their ceasefire for three weeks ahead of its expiration on Sunday, Iran showed off its control over the Strait of Hormuz by releasing footage of its commandos storming a huge cargo ship, leaving the timing of the reopening of the world's most important shipping corridor uncertain and keeping oil prices elevated.

The dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of currencies including the yen and the euro, ticked 0.01% higher to 98.84 and remained on track for a weekly gain of 0.62%. The euro dipped 0.01% to $1.1682, while sterling edged down 0.02% to $1.3464.

"Oil and the dollar are still moving pretty closely ⁠together, and with crude creeping back up ... I'd say the dollar is still staying fairly firm," said Sho Suzuki, a market analyst at Matsui Securities.

Brent crude futures rose 45 cents, or 0.43%, to $105.52 a barrel at 0525 GMT, while West Texas Intermediate futures were up 14 cents, or 0.15%, at $95.99.

The dollar has drawn safe-haven demand amid the uncertainty. It gained ground in March as concerns over the conflict deepened, but gave back some of those gains this month as optimism over a potential resolution grew.

Meanwhile, the yen was on track for a fifth straight day of losses against the dollar, weakening 0.03% to 159.77 per dollar.

Japanese Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama reiterated her verbal warning on intervention on Friday that authorities can take "decisive" action against speculative moves in the foreign exchange market, a day after saying Japan has a "free hand" to intervene and that past interventions had been effective.

With Japanese authorities continuing to push back against yen weakness, "it is difficult to expect a scenario in which the yen weakens sharply beyond 160 per ‌dollar in ⁠the near term," said Akihiko Yokoo, senior analyst at Mitsubishi UFJ Bank, in a note.

Japan's core consumer inflation slowed below the central bank's 2% target for a second straight month in March. Analysts, though, expect inflation to accelerate back above the Bank of Japan's target in coming months, as companies begin to pass on higher fuel costs from the Middle East conflict.

The BOJ is set to hold its two-day policy meeting ending on Tuesday. Reuters reported the bank is likely to hold off raising interest rates next week as fading prospects of a near-term end ⁠to the Middle East war keep the country's economic and price outlook highly uncertain. The BOJ is still expected to signal its readiness to hike to counter mounting price pressures.

Matsui Securities' Suzuki said an intervention is more likely only if the dollar-yen pair breaks above its July 2024 high of 161.95.

"So even if yen weakness accelerates after next week's BOJ meeting, they'd probably start with ⁠jawboning and if that doesn't work, then move to actual intervention," he said.

In a similar vein, the European Central Bank will hold its deposit rate on April 30 but hike it in June, according to just over half of economists polled by Reuters, in a bid to protect a war-induced energy shock from knocking the euro zone economy ⁠off balance.

The Australian dollar weakened 0.03% versus the greenback to $0.7126. New Zealand's kiwi weakened 0.03% versus the greenback to $0.585. The dollar also held firm against emerging Asian currencies, with the Philippine peso falling 0.3% to 60.699 per dollar after touching 60.755, the lowest since late March. The Malaysian ringgit weakened 0.1% to 3.9660 and the Indian rupee slipped 0.2% to 94.2950.

In cryptocurrencies, bitcoin fell 0.23% to $77,740.57. Ethereum declined 0.73% to $2,309.52.   (Reuters)

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Dollar-rises-0-6-as-Iran-tensions-shake-markets

MilitiaMan and Crew: IRAQ DINAR UPDATE-Steady Progress All Fronts-Development-Investment Coordination-Regional-Global

MilitiaMan and Crew: IRAQ DINAR UPDATE-Steady Progress All Fronts-Development-Investment Coordination-Regional-Global

4-23-2026

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=x_359W3_VyU

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Thursday Evening 4-23-26

Iraq Extends Parliamentary Term To Allow Government Formation

2026-04-23 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq’s parliament is set to extend its current legislative term, which was due to end in the coming days, until the end of next month following an agreement between the Speaker Haibet Al-Halbousi and leaders of political blocs, a lawmaker said on Thursday.

 MP Ibtisam Al-Hilali of the State of Law Coalition (SLC) told Shafaq News that the extension aims to facilitate the formation of the next government following the nomination of a candidate by the Shiite Coordination Framework, the largest bloc in the 329-seat parliament, in line with Article 76 of the constitution, which requires the designated prime minister to present a cabinet within 30 days.

Al-Hilali added that several draft laws remain under review in parliamentary committees and are expected to be addressed in upcoming sessions.

 Under Iraq’s constitutional system, parliament holds two legislative terms each year, separated by recess periods, though the leadership may extend sessions or convene extraordinary meetings to address urgent political and legislative matters, particularly during government formation or when delayed laws require passage.

Read more: Coordination Framework: Can govern Iraq, but cannot agree on a MP

https://shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Iraq-extends-parliamentary-term-to-allow-government-formation

The Shiite Coordination Framework: Can Govern Iraq, But Cannot Agree On A Prime Minister

2026-04-22 / Shafaq News    Four days before a constitutional deadline that could tip Iraq's government formation into legal crisis, the Shiite Coordination Framework —the largest bloc in the country's 329-seat parliament— has failed repeatedly to agree on a candidate for prime minister. The meetings were derailed by numbers that look decisive on paper and are paralyzed in practice.

The Framework holds 162 seats, nearly half of parliament, enough to claim the premiership designation under Iraq's post-2003 power-sharing system. Under that system, the prime minister is not elected by parliament but designated by whichever coalition can credibly claim the status of largest bloc, making the CF's internal selection process the real decision, and the subsequent parliamentary confidence vote its ratification.

 In practice, those 162 seats are distributed across two internally competing power centers whose interests diverge sharply enough that no combination of arguments, incentives, or face-saving formulas has yet produced a majority willing to commit to a single name.

 That ratification, however, is not guaranteed. A designated prime minister still requires the support of Sunni and Kurdish blocs to secure a parliamentary confidence vote. A candidate who arrives at that threshold without cross-community backing, regardless of how he was designated, cannot form a government. The internal CF contest and the broader parliamentary landscape are therefore inseparable, and the numbers across both arenas matter.

 Under Article 76 of the Iraqi constitution, the Framework has until April 26 to formally present its nominee to President Nizar Amedi, who was elected by parliament on April 11. The nominee then has 30 days to form a government and secure parliamentary confidence.

 Each day the Framework spends in a failed session is a day subtracted from that window, and a signal to Iraq's partners, creditors, and regional neighbors that the caretaker government of Mohammed Shia al-Sudani may be managing the country's affairs for considerably longer than anyone formally acknowledges.

The 162-Seat Fiction

 The Framework declared itself the largest parliamentary bloc following the November 2025 elections and claimed the premiership designation on that basis. The declaration was procedurally correct.

What it obscured is that the 162 seats it claimed are not a unified political force, but an institutional label applied to two categories of parties whose common ground begins and ends with Shiite identity.

 The first category, parties with active armed wings inside the Popular Mobilization Forces, accounts for 59 of those seats. Asaib Ahl al-Haq, the Iran-aligned paramilitary force that has since entered formal politics through its Sadiqoon movement, holds 27. The Badr Organization of Hadi al-Amiri holds 21.

Kataib Hezbollah's political wing, Hoqooq, and Kataib Imam Ali's Khadamat movement add six and five, respectively. These blocs operate under a dual logic —parliamentary presence and armed capability— that gives them leverage inside the CF disproportionate to their seat count alone.

 The second category, CF members without armed wings, holds the Framework's numerical majority at 103 seats. Caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani's Reconstruction and Development coalition, the election's largest single winner with 46 seats, anchors this group.

Nouri al-Maliki's State of Law coalition, which holds 29 seats and carries the Framework's formal nomination for the premiership, sits alongside Ammar al-Hakim's Al-Hikma Alliance with 18, and two smaller parties —Tasmeem and Abshir Ya Iraq— with six and four seats respectively.

 The distinction between these two categories matters more than the CF's aggregate figure suggests. The “civilian majority” within the Framework is theoretically dominant. It is also the most fractured half, because civilian parties calculate in terms of governance costs, international legitimacy, and cabinet portfolios, while the armed-wing blocs calculate in terms of PMF autonomy and institutional control of the security sector. Read more: Iraq’s next Prime Minister held hostage by US-Iran standoff

The Calculus Of Deadlock

 The Framework formally nominated al-Maliki on January 24 by majority vote, not by the consensus that had governed previous nomination rounds. That procedural fracture signaled from the outset that his bid lacked the internal cohesion a confidence vote would eventually require.

Four days later, US President Donald Trump publicly rejected the nomination, threatening to cut Washington's support for Baghdad if al-Maliki returned to power. The American position hardened further when US Envoy Tom Barrack visited Baghdad and conveyed the objection through diplomatic channels directly to Iraqi political leaders.

Al-Maliki did not withdraw. His camp argued that the nomination was a collective CF decision rather than a personal ambition, and that any change of course must come from within the Framework itself. That framing —institutional loyalty as a shield against external pressure — has held his position in place even as the internal balance has shifted steadily against him.

 The seat count tells the story with unusual clarity. Al-Maliki's committed coalition spans three communities but remains numerically modest: his own State of Law with 29 seats, Al-Azm alliance leader Muthanna al-Samarrai's Sunni bloc with 15, and the Kurdistan Democratic Party of Masoud Barzani with 26.

The KDP welcomed his nomination publicly and concluded a reciprocal arrangement, even if not publicly, under which al-Maliki's forces would back the KDP's presidential candidate, Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein.

 That arrangement collapsed on April 11 when parliament elected the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan's candidate Nizar Amedi as president, leaving the KDP without its side of the bargain and al-Maliki without his most significant non-Shiite backer.

 The forces aligned against al-Maliki's personal bid command significantly greater parliamentary weight, even if they do not always agree on an alternative. Al-Sudani's Reconstruction and Development coalition holds 46 seats. The Sadiqoon movement of Qais al-Khazali and the Al-Hikma Alliance of Ammar al-Hakim, whose positions have converged around resistance to al-Maliki specifically, together contribute 45.

 Mohammed al-Halbousi's Taqadum party, the largest Sunni force with 33 seats, had already rejected al-Maliki's nomination before Trump's statement, grounding its opposition in domestic political rivalry rather than American pressure.

The PUK's 15 seats, anchored by its April 11 presidential victory, sit firmly in the anti-al-Maliki camp.

 Badr Organization leader Hadi al-Amiri's 21 seats remain formally neutral —the most consequential undeclared position in the entire negotiation.

 The combined weight of forces either opposed to al-Maliki or uncommitted to him exceeds 160 seats across all communities. His committed base sits at roughly 70. The gap between those two figures is a structural verdict.

What has kept al-Maliki's position alive is not numbers but leverage: his ability to deny the CF the internal consensus it needs to formally displace him, and the absence of a challenger whom all opposing factions can agree to support.

 That absence has produced the current impasse. The Framework scheduled a decisive meeting for last Saturday, postponed it to Monday, and watched Monday's session end without resolution. Wednesday's attempt was similarly postponed to Friday, and April 26 is now four days away. Read more: Iraq Government Formation: The Constitution that cannot enforce its own deadlines

The Mechanism Debate

 Inside the failed sessions, two voting proposals have emerged as the Framework's attempt to break its own impasse, according to sources who spoke to Shafaq News.

The first would require any nominee to secure an absolute majority of CF members —a threshold of roughly 82 of 162 seats. Neither al-Maliki nor al-Sudani reaches that figure from his own bloc alone, making the outcome dependent on which man can pull Badr, Hoqooq, Khadamat, and the smaller parties into his column.

 The second proposal links the selection to the parliamentary weight of blocs backing each contender, with the winning candidate required to surpass a two-thirds threshold within the Framework's leadership structure, equivalent to approximately 10 leadership votes. This shifts the contest from seat counts to institutional seniority, a terrain where al-Maliki's longer roots inside the CF machinery could offset his numerical disadvantage.

 Both leaders have reportedly agreed that one of these mechanisms should govern the outcome. The agreement on process, however, masks a disagreement on proxy candidates that may prove equally difficult to resolve.

 Al-Maliki's camp has advanced Bassem al-Badri, chair of the Accountability and Justice Commission, as a compromise figure. Al-Sudani's coalition has put forward Ihsan al-Awadi, director of the caretaker prime minister's office.

Thirty lawmakers from al-Sudani's own bloc have threatened to withdraw their support if al-Awadi is nominated —a signal of the factional tension running even within what should be the Framework's dominant force.

Sources within the Framework told Shafaq News that if divisions persist, discussions may shift toward a third figure with political and administrative experience capable of addressing security, economic, and governance challenges while maintaining international acceptance. Caretaker Health Minister Saleh al-Hasnawi has been floated as one such name.

 The PMF's institutional status has emerged as a parallel sticking point in the cabinet portfolio negotiations. Armed-wing blocs are demanding that the PMF's designation as an independent body be preserved in any government formation agreement, a condition that directly shapes Washington's assessment of the next prime minister's willingness to constrain Iranian-aligned forces.

The External Ceiling

 What the internal CF sessions have not fully absorbed is that the room where the designation is nominally being made is not the only room where it is actually being decided.

 The commander of Iran's Quds Force, Esmail Qaani, completed a covert multi-day visit to Baghdad —his presence, as is customary, unannounced until after the fact. He departed, leaving his deputy behind to monitor two parallel files: the status of Iraqi armed groups in the event of an Iran-US agreement, and the government formation process itself.

 The dual mandate of that deputy's presence reflects Tehran's consistent position: the PM selection and the broader regional negotiation are not separate files.

 In a message issued after his departure, Qaani stated that forming a government is "a purely Iraqi right," adding that "Iraq is too great for others to interfere in its affairs" —a formulation that pointedly referenced what he described as "perpetrators of crimes against humanity," understood as a reference to the United States.

The statement publicly disavowed the very influence his presence was understood to be exercising. Most political observers in Baghdad read the visit itself as the signal, and the departing words as its diplomatic cover.

The consequences of that visit became visible shortly after. The CF was on the verge of naming al-Badri on Friday evening, with a Saturday session expected to confirm the choice. Subsequent developments —never formally identified by any party— unraveled an agreement that had appeared settled, sending the nine-candidate contest back to its starting point.

 Washington's move is expected next. US Envoy Tom Barrack is anticipated to visit Baghdad imminently. The two visits —Qaani's concluded and Barrack's forthcoming— are the decisive external inputs that will shape Iraq's next political phase.

What The Numbers Cannot Resolve

 The trajectory of the current negotiation points toward one of four outcomes, each carrying distinct consequences for Iraq's political architecture.

The first is an al-Maliki premiership. It remains constitutionally possible since he holds the CF's formal nomination, commands a committed cross-community coalition of roughly 70 seats, and has not withdrawn despite sustained internal and external pressure. His camp's strategy is not to win the internal CF numbers —he cannot— but to outlast the opposition's ability to coalesce around a single alternative.

Behind that strategy sits an implicit endorsement from Tehran, whose preference for al-Maliki as a known and institutionally reliable quantity has been visible throughout the formation process. However, what al-Maliki cannot overcome is the American, and the parliamentary confidence vote that follows any CF designation would require cross-community support that his current coalition cannot deliver.

 His 70-seat committed base falls critically short of the majority he would need, particularly given the public distance maintained by Sunni and Kurdish blocs that have either explicitly rejected his return or quietly withheld their backing.

The second is a second term for Al-Sudani, secured through the internal CF voting mechanism once al-Maliki's bid is formally exhausted. This is the outcome the seat distribution most clearly supports.

 Al-Sudani commands the largest single bloc, enjoys tacit backing from al-Hakim and al-Khazali, faces no American veto, and demonstrated through his caretaker tenure a capacity to manage the competing pressures of Washington and Tehran without forcing either into open confrontation.

He also carries the cross-community support that a confidence vote requires —the April 11 presidential session demonstrated that the coalition holds under pressure. A second Al-Sudani term would represent continuity dressed as resolution, the CF's nominal nominee displaced by its numerical reality.

The third is a compromise figure —al-Badri, al-Awadi, al-Hasnawi, or another name whose primary qualification is the absence of committed enemies. This outcome would resolve the immediate impasse while deferring its underlying causes. A prime minister without a political base of his own would govern through negotiated dependency on the blocs that installed him, meaning the CF's internal fracture would be managed rather than resolved.

 External pressure shapes this scenario as directly as it does the others. Any compromise figure must clear two external thresholds simultaneously: Washington's acceptance, which rules out anyone perceived as an Iranian instrument, and Tehran's tolerance, which rules out anyone perceived as a reformist threat to PMF institutional autonomy.

The fourth, and constitutionally most precarious, outcome is a failure to meet the April 26 limit, forcing a legal and political reckoning over what happens when Iraq's largest bloc cannot exercise the designation it claims. The Federal Supreme Court's 2010 ruling on the largest bloc created the legal ground within which this contest is being fought.

 Whether that architecture contains a mechanism for resolving a CF impasse that crosses the constitutional threshold is a matter Iraqi legal scholars have not been required to address until now.

 A bloc that cannot agree on a candidate across multiple failed sessions is not simply experiencing political friction. It is revealing, in real time, the limits of a power-sharing system designed to distribute influence rather than concentrate it, and that has never developed a mechanism for resolving the conflicts that distribution inevitably produces.

Read more: Iraq's Presidential vote:a rehearsal for premiership

Written and edited by Shafaq News staff.

https://shafaq.com/en/Report/The-Shiite-Coordination-Framework-Can-govern-Iraq-but-cannot-agree-on-a-prime-minister

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