AGP Executive Report

Iraqi Arts & Film: Iraq’s short film “Jidariyat Matar (Mural of Rain)” won Best Screenplay at Alexandria’s Femto Art International Short Film Festival, spotlighting a political prisoner’s abuse under Saddam-era Baath rule and underlining cinema’s role in preserving national memory. Sports & Culture: After the 2026 World Cup, Australia’s Socceroos are turning to the AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, with friendlies including Brazil and an opening match against Iraq led by Graham Arnold—an Iraq spotlight for fans across the region. Iraq Politics (Arts-adjacent): Iraq’s cabinet completion is likely to wait until Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi’s mid-September Europe trip, as disputes still stall key ministerial posts. Regional Media & Storytelling: TNT is pushing scripted drama with “High Value Target: The Hunt for Saddam,” a limited series about the post-invasion search for Hussein—another reminder of how Iraq stories keep finding their way into global entertainment.

Iraq–Middle East Arts & Culture: Iraqi director Mohamed Jabarah Al-Daradji’s film Irkalla: Gilgamesh’s Dream is set to open the Hollywood African Cinema Connection (HACC) in Cape Town (Oct 30–Nov 2), spotlighting land, heritage, and the human cost of displacement. Sports & Community: After the 2026 World Cup, Australia’s Socceroos are turning to the AFC Asian Cup—starting with a match against Iraq led by Graham Arnold—while Iraq’s presence in regional football remains a key storyline for fans. Regional Politics & Media: Iraq’s Transport Ministry says a Panamanian-flagged tanker was hit in the northern Persian Gulf with no casualties reported, as Hormuz tensions and shipping disruptions continue to ripple across the region. Security & Public Life: Singapore’s terrorism report links rising threat levels to Middle East conflicts, with youth radicalisation cases increasing—an angle that shapes how entertainment and public events are planned.

Education Regulation: Iraq’s MoHESR says “institutional licensing” doesn’t automatically mean programme accreditation, and outlines a new university classification framework that includes self-reporting of violations. Sports & Talent: Para archer Sheetal Devi wins dramatic gold in the women’s compound event at the World Archery Para Series Stage 3 in Ahmedabad, sealing India’s 15-medal haul. Film & Culture: Final Cut in Venice wraps its 14th edition, with Iraq among the Arab countries supported, and highlights Venice 2026 winners including Madi Makambu’s “Madi Makambu” taking the La Biennale di Venezia Prize. Cinema Spotlight: Norwegian-Kurdish director Halkawt Mustafa discusses Venice 2026 film “No Paradise If You Are Killed by a Woman,” a Peshmerga story rooted in his own war-photography experience. Iraq in the News: Iraq’s PM Al-Zaidi faces pressure over a deadline to disarm Iran-backed militias, with analysts warning it could become a credibility test.

Iraq Tech & Media: Iraq’s National Security Service (INSS) launched an AI-powered “Distinguish the Fake” platform to help Iraqis verify images, videos, and dubbed audio and curb digital misinformation and fraud. Regional Security: Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz escalated as the US said it disabled five IRGC-linked crude oil tankers, while the IRGC claimed strikes on multiple vessels in retaliation. Iraq-Iran Relations: Iraqi students at Semnan University faced an attack amid rising anti-Iraqi sentiment questions, with officials and residents pointing to wider nationalist and economic pressures. Arts & Culture (Iraq-linked): Iraq Al-Hadath director Bilal al-Maliki was taken into custody in Najaf for transfer to Baghdad after detention in Mashhad tied to Iraqi requests—an issue that could ripple through Iraq’s media scene. Sports: India’s para archers chased medals in Ahmedabad, including a gold win over Iraq’s Aldawod Anwer and Kadhim Abbas in Para Compound Men’s Doubles.

Iraq Media Crackdown: Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission suspended Sawt Al-Shaab on Iraq Al-Hadath TV for 90 days and barred presenter Marwa Hashem from media appearances for the same period, citing “false and fabricated materials” and reporting accuracy violations; the regulator also ordered a remedy and an apology. Cross-Border Detention: Iraqi authorities say Iranian officials detained Iraq Al-Hadath owner Bilal Al-Maliki in Mashhad at Baghdad’s request, after preliminary statements by presenter Qusay Shafiq in an alleged extortion case. Hate Speech Oversight: Iraq’s commander-in-chief office announced a committee to monitor and curb sectarian, ethnic, and racial incitement, with the judiciary to decide on legal action. Sovereignty vs Weapons: Armed factions reiterated that bringing weapons under state control is tied to full sovereignty, saying they won’t hand over arms unless Iraq gains control over land, airspace, and decision-making. Film & Culture: Kurdish-Norwegian director Halkawt Mustafa’s “No Paradise If You Are Killed by a Woman” premiered at Venice, while “Madi Makambu” won major awards at Final Cut’s Venice edition, spotlighting pregnancy denial. Sports: Iraq’s West Asia championship win over Qatar (3-0) and Gulf Cup preparations in Bahrain keep regional football momentum. Tech & Work: AI is reshaping Iraq’s job market, with new graduates facing higher expectations as routine tasks get automated.

Regional Security: Iraq’s air-defense safety net is shrinking as US-led coalition systems, including Patriot and C-Ram around Erbil, are set to be withdrawn—pushing neighbors to scramble for alternatives. Diplomacy & Services: Iraq’s Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi orders jobs for long-waiting graduates, while Iraq also moves on a new oil refinery plan with Turkey in Ceyhan. Investor Protection: The Iraq Securities Commission warns the public about unlicensed investment schemes, urging checks before depositing money. Iraq-Iran Tensions: Iranian authorities investigate attacks on Iraqi students in Semnan, with Iraq’s Foreign Ministry calling for legal action. Arts & Culture: Susan Sarandon says Hollywood agencies are still “blacklisting” her after her Palestinian support, and Iraq’s Oscar submission “No Paradise If You Are Killed by a Woman” gets a spotlight as a Kurdish Peshmerga drama. Sports: Bahrain gears up for the 27th Gulf Cup, with Group A including Iraq.

Jewish–Kurdish Solidarity: An international Jewish–Kurdish conference opened in London, bringing leaders and scholars together to spotlight shared history and future cooperation. Iraqi Students in Iran: In Semnan, Iranian protesters attacked Iraqi students at their dormitory; Semnan University moved exams online and allowed students to leave, while Iranian authorities identified two suspects and Iraq’s foreign ministry called for legal action. US-Iran Fallout Hits Families: A US Air Force widow said she was first denied combat-related benefits because the Iran conflict was “not technically a war,” but the Pentagon later corrected the record after her viral post. Iraq Security Transition: Iraq’s armed forces say the US-led coalition mission ends Sept. 30, with experts warning the shift could affect KRG security and potentially reshape US–Peshmerga support. Digital Crime Trend: A FATF report warns “digital hawala” is evolving with virtual assets, helping money laundering and, in some cases, terror financing. Arab Film Development: At Venice, MAD Solutions and Erth announced a collaboration to develop Arab film/TV projects for regional and international markets.

Iraq’s Arts & Culture: The Dhofar International Film Festival kicked off in Salalah with 32 films from 16 countries, including Iraq, Palestine, and several regional partners, spotlighting both features and documentaries across four competitions. Film & Iraq War Stories: Atonement, a drama inspired by real events about the lasting cost of war, is set for a special screening in Annapolis on Sept. 22—bringing another Iraq-war narrative to international audiences. Music & Regional Talent: The Jerusalem International Oud Festival announced Jonny Greenwood and Dudu Tassa for Nov. 5–12, with a program that connects Arabic love-song traditions across countries including Iraq. Media & Entertainment: Susan Sarandon says Hollywood agencies are still discouraging hiring her after her pro-Palestinian activism, while MS NOW anchor Alex Witt signed off after nearly 30 years on air. Sports: Iraq’s football presence continues in regional youth competition coverage, and Bahrain’s U20 team missed the AFC U20 Asian Cup after a loss to Afghanistan. Local Note: Iraq’s North Oil Company denied a reported gas leak at the Bai Hassan field in Kirkuk, urging people to rely on official updates.

Iraq Security & Borders: Iraq and the Kurdistan Region agreed to tighten border control and boost intelligence-sharing, with joint drills, anti-smuggling steps, and faster handover of wanted suspects to the judiciary. US-Iraq/Kurdistan Pullback: A senior Iraqi security adviser said coalition forces and defense systems in the Kurdistan Region are set to be withdrawn by Sept. 30, with phased removal already underway. Politics & Justice: Former lawmaker Kazim Al-Sayadi is expected to be released after the prime minister withdrew a complaint, pending legal procedures. Finance Watch: Iraq’s securities regulator warned the public against unlicensed operators and fake investment schemes, urging checks with regulators and caution over guaranteed returns. Arts & Film: Iraq selected “No Paradise If You Are Killed by a Woman” for the 2027 Oscars’ Best International Feature race, a Mosul-shot Kurdish war story inspired by a female Peshmerga sniper. Sports: Iraq will compete in seven sports at the 2026 Asian Games, while Iraq’s youth football team is among qualifiers for the 2027 AFC U-20 Asian Cup finals.

Iraq Sports: Iraq beat Qatar 3-0 in the West Asian Women’s Volleyball Championship in Amman, bouncing back after a loss to Lebanon and setting up a key final-round match vs Jordan. Kurdistan Infrastructure: The KRG says the Korre-Shaqlawa-Qandil road is 70% complete, with a planned October opening that will cut Erbil–Soran travel time by over 30 minutes, including tunnels and safety upgrades. Iraq Economy Watch: Iraq’s Central Bank denied social media claims of a new, higher dollar rate, reiterating the official figure and warning the rumors aim to destabilize the market. Iraq Banking Confidence: The CBI also reassured depositors after placing Al-Taif Islamic Bank under guardianship, stressing liquidity, deposit protection rules, and deposit insurance coverage. Culture & Memory: Iraq’s wider region of remembrance echoes in international coverage of 9/11 memorial events and veteran-focused community festivals.

Iraqi Sports: Iraq beat Qatar 3-0 in the West Asian Women’s Volleyball Championship in Amman, bouncing back after an opening loss to Lebanon; they now face hosts Jordan for a spot in the 2027 Asian Women’s Volleyball Championship. Arts & Culture: Cedar Symposium 2 in Beirut brought together about 35 artists from Lebanon and Iraq, including Baghdad and the Kurdistan Region, using visual art to push coexistence and peace. Football Development: Former Iraq youth coach Muwafaq Hussein criticized Iraq’s youth football pathway after poor Asian qualifiers results, calling for earlier, structured training through academies. Banking Watch: Iraq’s Central Bank denied any change to the official US dollar rate after social media claims, and separately reassured depositors that funds are protected and liquidity remains strong. Repatriation: Iraq’s migration ministry said over 20,000 returnees have been rehabilitated after time in Syria’s al-Hol camp, with the file set to close soon. Entertainment (Global): A new streaming slate highlights an Iraq-themed political thriller about Saddam Hussein and the final season of “Babylon-Berlin.”

Iraqi Film & Oscars: Iraq has selected Halkawt Mustafa’s drama No Paradise If You Are Killed By A Woman as its Best International Feature Film entry for the 99th Academy Awards, with the Venice premiere next week and a story centered on a female Peshmerga sniper confronting ISIS-era trauma. Baghdad Arts & Daily Life: Iraq’s “Green Taxi” plan is taking shape as a gasoline crisis hits, with a study underway for electric taxis and charging facilities in Baghdad, potentially involving thousands of vehicles via a Chinese automaker contract. Press Freedom: Iraqi security forces blocked journalists from covering fuel shortages in Baghdad and confiscated press badges over an old permit requirement that was abolished years ago, with rights groups calling it a direct violation of press freedom. Sports Spotlight: Ahmedabad’s World Archery Para Series 2026 kicks off as the city ramps up international events, highlighting how sports infrastructure and community participation are growing fast. Theatre & Translation: In Cairo, Denis O’Hare helped launch Arabic translations of contemporary American plays including An Iliad, using performance to push cross-cultural dialogue.

Iraq in Film Spotlight: Iraq has selected Norwegian-Kurdish director Halkawt Mustafa’s drama No Paradise If You Are Killed By A Woman as its Best International Feature Film entry for the 99th Oscars, ahead of its Venice premiere. The story follows Avan Jamal as a Peshmerga sniper who returns to Mosul to rescue her sister from ISIS, drawing on Mustafa’s own experience and his past work on Kurdish women fighters. Press Freedom Under Pressure: In Baghdad, security forces blocked journalists from covering fuel shortages and confiscated press badges tied to an authorization rule that was abolished in 2015, with rights groups warning this violates constitutional free-expression protections. Heritage vs. Housing Claims: Iraq’s State Board of Antiquities and Heritage denied allegations that archaeological sites are being destroyed for housing, saying development can proceed only after rescue excavation and documentation. Regional Arts & Culture Notes: Pope Leo XIV told Latin bishops across the Arab regions, including Iraq, “Do not be afraid of your smallness,” urging closeness to local communities amid tension and emigration.

Wedding Strike Fallout: A US airstrike on a wedding in southern Iran is under investigation after weapons experts said damage looks like a direct hit by US munitions; Iran reports five dead (including a child) and nearly 70 wounded, with funerals held in Kuhestak as JD Vance says Washington “cares” and is checking what happened. Regional Escalation: Iran says it retaliated with missiles and drones targeting US bases in Kuwait and the UAE, while the wider Iran–US exchange keeps Strait of Hormuz shipping and regional nerves on edge. Iraq’s Arts & Culture Angle: Iraq’s cultural scene is still moving—Baghdad’s book fair and local arts coverage continue—while the war’s shadow shapes what audiences watch and discuss. Iraq Economy & Media: A report highlights Iraq’s “shadow trade” links that help Iran keep dollars and networks moving despite US pressure, underscoring how regional conflict reaches everyday life. Local Governance: Pope Leo XIV urged Middle East bishops, including Iraq’s, to focus on faith and community presence amid turmoil.

Iraq Oil & Investment: Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi ordered preparations for an international Baghdad oil conference aimed at attracting major companies to help more than double production by 2030, with plans to cut gas flaring and reduce imports. Regional Arts & Education: In Sulaymaniyah, Royal Canadian International Community partnered with Rosedale International Education to add the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) as an in-house senior secondary pathway. Sports Spotlight: Ahmedabad, India, is set to host the World Archery Para Series 2026 (Sept 5–9), featuring athletes from Iraq and 19 other countries. Culture & Media: A Cambodia Ministry of Information delegation joined a China seminar for media professionals from Belt and Road countries, with Iraq among the participants. Security & Society: An Iraqi lawyer filed a complaint over remarks by Badr leader Hadi Al-Amiri tied to the 2019 Tishreen protests, as prosecutors face renewed scrutiny over militia-linked violence.

Middle East Conflict: The US and Iran traded the heaviest blows since July, with Iran striking US-linked bases across the Gulf and Iraq’s Kurdistan after US attacks on Iranian sites near the Strait of Hormuz. Civilian Toll: Iran says 18 were killed and 108 wounded in the latest US strikes, including a wedding attack in Sirik/Kuhestak that Tehran calls a “war crime,” while the UN warns of civilian casualties and urges an immediate halt. Regional Fallout: Kuwait says it intercepted Iranian missiles and drones, as the fighting threatens wider escalation and keeps oil routes under pressure. Iraq Focus: Iraq’s State of Law leader Nouri al-Maliki says weapons control should mean “regulating and containing” arms rather than disarming factions, with heavy/medium/light categories under committee discussion. Culture & Media: A Wall Street Journal profile spotlights conservative radio hosts Clay Travis and Buck Sexton, blending politics with sports and entertainment. Sports/Events: Baghdad’s book fair coverage continues, while Iraq is also listed among countries attending major international para-archery events abroad.