HEADLINES:

Iraq

Iraqi Parliament to Resume Session and Vote on Two Key Laws

The Iraqi parliament will meet on Saturday to vote on two laws related to political prisoners and energy regulation. It will also read proposed changes to the Civil Defense Law and Environmental Protection Bill.


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Iraqi Planning Minister: Poverty Rate Drops by 2.5%

Iraq’s poverty rate has decreased from 20% to 17.5%, according to the Planning Minister. The UN has praised the government’s efforts to reduce poverty and support citizens.


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Abadi: Agreement Between Kurdistan Region and Baghdad is Temporary

Haider al-Abadi says the agreement between the KRG and Baghdad is temporary and unsustainable. He stresses that ending oil smuggling is the only path to a lasting solution.


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IHEC: 70 Political Parties and Coalitions Registered for Iraqi Elections

IHEC says 70 political parties and coalitions have registered for the upcoming Iraqi elections. The draw to assign numbers will take place on August 9.


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Iraqi Planning Minister: Poverty Rate Drops to 10.8%

Iraq's poverty rate has dropped to 10.8% due to government initiatives between 2018 and 2024. The Planning Minister confirmed ongoing efforts to improve living conditions and job opportunities.


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Sudani and President Rashid Discuss Kurdish Salaries and Election Timeline

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and President Latif Rashid met on Wednesday to discuss Baghdad-Erbil salary disputes and stressed holding elections on time. Both sides emphasized resolving issues within the framework of the constitution and law.


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IHEC to Use Artificial Intelligence to Monitor Iraqi Parliamentary Elections

The Iraqi Independent High Election Commission (IHEC) announced that the upcoming parliamentary elections will be monitored using artificial intelligence. A draw for coalitions, parties, and candidates will take place on August 9.


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Sudani: Drone Attacks on Kurdistan Oil Fields Are Terrorist Acts

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani condemned the recent drone attacks on oil fields in the Kurdistan Region, calling them terrorist acts. He confirmed cooperation with the KRG and coalition forces to identify those responsible.


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IHEC: Verification of Candidate Names to Be Completed Within Two Days

The Iraqi Independent High Election Commission (IHEC) will complete the verification of candidates' names within two days. Over 7,900 candidates have applied, with 46 disqualified and changes made to ensure gender and educational balance.


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Sudanese Financial Advisor: 2026 Budget Will Boost Non-Oil Revenues

Iraqi Prime Minister's Financial Advisor Mazhar Saleh announced that the 2026 budget will prioritize increasing non-oil revenues to enhance liquidity and reduce borrowing. The move aligns with Iraq's five-year plan to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil.


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Chinese Car Imports to Iraq Surge by 30% Amid Shifting Trade Dynamics

Chinese car exports to Iraq surged by 30% in the first half of 2025, contributing to $8.8 billion in total Chinese exports, despite a drop in overall trade volume between the two countries.


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Sudani Adviser: Cancellation of Iraq-Turkey Oil Deal Will Not Harm Iraq

Turkey’s cancellation of the 1975 oil pipeline agreement will not negatively affect Iraq, according to PM Sudani’s financial adviser. He said exports have already been halted for two years and future deals may benefit Iraq more.


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Schools to Be Handed Over to Election Commission for One Week

Iraq will hand over schools to the Election Commission from November 5–11 to prepare for the parliamentary elections. The move includes equipment installation and voter outreach workshops.


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Minister of Water Resources: 36 New Dams Planned Across Iraq

Iraq plans to build 36 dams nationwide to boost water reserves and combat climate change. Funding has already been allocated for three dams in Karbala, Nineveh, and Muthanna.


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Federal Court Dismisses Complaints Against KRG Oil Contracts

Iraq’s Federal Supreme Court rejected two complaints challenging the KRG’s oil contracts with U.S. companies. The court found no legal grounds to annul the May 19 agreements.


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Finance Minister Links May Salaries to Oil Delivery

Finance Minister Taif Sami said May salaries depend on the Kurdistan Region delivering oil to SOMO. Baghdad may accept 230,000 barrels instead of 400,000—if delivery is fulfilled.


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IHEC: Dip Ink Will No Longer Be Used in Iraqi Elections

IHEC has decided to stop using dip ink in elections, citing advances in biometric technology. The commission says digital tools now ensure reliable voter identification.


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At Least 63 Killed in Shopping Mall Fire in Kut, Iraq

A fire at a shopping mall in Kut killed at least 63 people, including women and children. Authorities have launched an investigation and vowed to hold those responsible accountable.


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Finance Minister: Electronic Customs Project a Key Pillar of Iraq’s Economic Reform

Iraq’s Finance Minister says the electronic customs project is a vital step in boosting the economy. The system, supported by UNCTAD, will streamline trade and enhance customs transparency.


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Sudani’s Advisor: Iraq’s Unemployment Rate Drops from 17% to 13%

Iraq's unemployment rate has dropped from 17% to 13%, according to PM Sudani’s advisor. The decline is attributed to major infrastructure projects and IMF-compliant reforms.


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