Iraq: Top 5 Arab economy in 2024, 18 MARCH

  Iraq: Top 5 Arab economy in 2024

Five Arab countries, including Iraq, accounted for 72% of the region’s GDP, which surpassed $3.6 trillion in 2024, according to a new report from the Arab Investment & Export Credit Guarantee Corporation ("Dhaman") released on Sunday.

The UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iraq, and Algeria emerged as the leading contributors to the Arab economy, the report showed.

The forecast for 2025 suggests a 4.1% growth in the Arab economy, driven by strong performances in 14 countries, including nine oil producers, which together make up around 78% of the total GDP.

Despite economic challenges, the analysis highlights a boost in oil and gas export revenues, though crude oil production dropped by 4%, with uneven growth across the region.

Iraq continues to play a central role in the Arab economy, with its reliance on oil exports alongside government efforts to diversify income sources and increase investments in other sectors.

Per capita income in the Arab world reached $7,557 in 2024, with a modest increase expected to $7,602 in 2025. The population surpassed 467 million, growing by 2%.

Inflation in the region climbed to 12% last year, but is expected to ease to 8.5% in 2025. Unemployment rose to 9.7%.

Arab foreign trade saw a 3.6% increase, reaching $3.3 trillion, thanks to a 1% rise in exports and a 7% jump in imports.

Foreign exchange reserves across Arab countries grew by 3.7%, reaching $1.2 trillion, enough to cover imports for more than eight months.

The region's government debt decreased to 48.3% of GDP, with further reductions expected, dropping to 47.6% in the coming year.  link

TIDBIT FROM MARKZ, 18 MARCH

  MarkZ   

[via PDK] 

 From Iraq:  “Will the Coordination Framework collapse in the face of a potential Sadr/Sudanese alliance?” 

 This is actually a good thing for us. These were two blocs that did not work together before…but now they are working together. 

What are they working towards? 

...they want to make the political system in Iraq work much better. And they are removing the influence of Iran and Maliki. We are seeing things they have been talking about for 20 years happening now. 

 

FIREFLY: IRAQ BUDGET IS GOING FORWARD @DINARREVALUATION #iraqidinarinvestor #iraqidinar

 

FRANK26: "IRANIANS... FIGHT FOR SECURITY & STABILITY!!!", 18 MARCH

   KTFA

FRANK26: "IRANIANS... FIGHT FOR SECURITY & STABILITY!!!"......F26

In a shocking statement, the Iranian president said Tehran is experiencing a crisis that is no longer acceptable for living.

 

3/16/2025

 

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian revealed what he described as major problems in the administration of the capital, Tehran, warning of a "horrific shortage" of water, electricity, gas, and energy throughout the year.

During a meeting of the Tehran Province Planning and Development Council, the Iranian president said that rainfall (during the winter) was scarce, raising the possibility that the country will face a "severe water shortage" in 2026, especially since Tehran relies primarily on rainwater, snowpack, and groundwater.

He added that the current situation in Tehran is no longer livable, and that the capital cannot be supplied with water by tankers.

Iranian officials have previously reported a decline in rainfall of more than 40% compared to the long-term average, in addition to the excessive depletion of groundwater resources, which has led to a crisis of land subsidence, drought, and water shortages.

In this regard, Pezeshkian explained that some areas, such as Varamin, have experienced a 36-centimeter landslide, while emergency sessions are held when landslides reach 3 centimeters in other areas, underscoring the seriousness of the situation as the problem approaches the center of the capital. For his part, Mohammad Aghamiri, head of the Tehran City Council's Construction Committee, warned of a significant risk of landslides in eight districts of the capital, noting that some incidents have already occurred in these areas.

Previous reports indicated that the landslide crisis is affecting vital infrastructure such as airports, with an estimated 14 million people (20% of the population) at risk. Etemad newspaper also warned that 2026 will be an exceptional year for water and energy crises.

Bazeshkian emphasized that the problem cannot be resolved simply by issuing directives or arrests, but rather requires the intervention of specialists, warning that failure to be vigilant could lead to gas being cut off to homes in the winter.

LINK

 

DINAR REVALUATION: GEOPOLITICAL UPDATE OF IRAQ AND ITS CURRENCY , 18 MARCH

DINAR REVALUATION:  GEOPOLITICAL UPDATE OF IRAQ AND ITS CURRENCY 

Summary

A significant telephone conversation between the Iraqi Prime Minister, Al Sudani, and U.S. Secretary of Defense, Pete Heg, highlights a renewed commitment from the U.S. to maintain regional stability in Iraq. 

The ongoing confrontations between the U.S. and Iranian-backed Houthi forces in Yemen may further this goal by enhancing trade routes such as the Red Sea and Suez Canal, potentially reinforcing Iraq’s independence from Iran.

Additionally, there are important announcements for self-employed individuals regarding financial assistance programs from the Sick and Family Leave Credit (SATC), with claims potentially amounting to $332,000 for eligible years.

 On a technological front, the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) is making strides to digitize its economy, intending to eliminate paper currency entirely. This transformative move aligns with the construction of a new CBI building, which aims to modernize Iraq’s financial infrastructure.

For those interested in alternative income opportunities, a new passive income generator is also highlighted, promising substantial returns with minimal effort. The current exchange rates for the Iraqi dinar against the dollar are shared, alongside predictions of rate changes due to the upcoming Ramadan celebrations.

Overall, this update not only outlines the current financial landscape in Iraq but also provides insight into the potential future developments that could impact the Iraqi dinar’s value and the financial well-being of its citizens.

Highlights

• 🌍 U.S. and Iraq Commitment: Renewed assurances were made between the U.S. and Iraq for regional stability amid ongoing tensions.
• 💰 Financial Aid for Self-Employed: Self-employed individuals can claim up to $332,000 from the SATC for 2020 and 2021.
• 📉 Shift to Digital Currency: The Central Bank of Iraq plans to phase out paper currency entirely, currently reducing its usage by 50%.
• 🏛️ New CBI Infrastructure: A new Central Bank building is being constructed to support the transition to a digital economy.
• 📈 Potential Passive Income: A newly developed passive income generator is delivering consistent monthly returns for its users.
• 💵 Current Dinar Exchange Rates: Today’s rates show the Iraqi dinar at 148,000 to buy and 148,250 to sell against the dollar.
• 📆 Ramadan Rate Predictions: There are expectations of a rise in the dollar value due to the upcoming Ramadan festivities.

Key Insights

• 🌐 Diplomatic Developments Strengthening Iraq’s Position:
  The phone call between Al Sudani and Heg represents a pivotal moment, suggesting that Iraq is gradually distancing itself from Iranian influence. The U.S. commitment to regional stability may encourage investments and economic growth in Iraq, enhancing its sovereignty.

• 💵 Financial Support for Self-Employed:
  The announcement of available financial assistance through the Sick and Family Leave Credit marks a significant opportunity for self-employed individuals impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The potential for individuals to claim substantial sums reinforces the government’s acknowledgment of economic challenges during that period.

• 🌟 Transitioning to a Cashless Economy:
  The Iraqi Central Bank’s roadmap to digitize its currency reflects a global trend towards cashless societies. By reducing reliance on paper currency, Iraq may enhance transactional efficiency, decrease corruption, and improve the overall economic landscape.

• 🏗️ Investing in Financial Infrastructure:
  The construction of a new CBI building indicates Iraq’s long-term strategy in modernizing its banking systems. This investment is crucial for fostering technological advancements that will support the digital currency transition and could bolster economic stability.

• 📈 Passive Income Generation Opportunities:
  The introduction of a passive income generator demonstrates an emerging trend where individuals can invest with the potential for significant returns. This concept challenges traditional income-generating methods and reflects increasing interest in alternative financial strategies.

• 🔄 Dinar Exchange Rate Dynamics:
  The current exchange rate of the Iraqi dinar against the dollar suggests that the currency is relatively stable amid regional tensions. However, predictions of fluctuations during Ramadan highlight the volatility inherent in currency markets and the cultural factors influencing them.

• 🎉 Market Anticipation Around Ramadan:
  Anticipations of dollar value increases during Ramadan illustrate the cyclical nature of local economies and their connection to cultural events. Understanding these patterns can inform better financial planning and investment decisions for those involved in the Iraqi economy.

DINAR REVALUATION REPORT: Will Iraq's Dinar Revalue in 2025? @DINARREVALUATION #iraqidinar

 

FRANK26: "IRAN'S LEADERSHIP NEEDS TO LOOK IN THE MIRROR", 18 MARCH

 KTFA

FRANK26: "IRAN'S LEADERSHIP NEEDS TO LOOK IN THE MIRROR"..........F26

Iran uses drones to monitor women's hijab

3/16/2025

 

Iran is using drones, facial recognition systems, and an app to enforce its compulsory hijab laws for women, according to a United Nations report.

The UN report indicated that Iran has begun to rely on technology to monitor and punish women who violate the mandatory dress code.

The Nazer mobile app is a key tool in this campaign. It is supported by the government and allows citizens and police officers to report women violators.

According to the report, the Nazer app allows users to upload a vehicle's license plate number, location, and time of day if a woman not wearing a hijab is spotted. The app then identifies the vehicle online and alerts the police.

The report also noted that the app sends an instant text message to the registered vehicle owner, warning them that a violation of mandatory hijab laws has been detected, and that their vehicle will be confiscated if they fail to comply.

The app, which is accessible through the Iranian Police website (FARAJA), was expanded in September 2024 to include women in ambulances, taxis, and public transportation.

Although the application was suspended in December 2024 following internal controversy, Iran's "Hijab and Chastity" bill continues to generate controversy in the country.

If passed, the law would impose penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $12,000 for violations, according to the report.

Also, under Article 286 of Iran's penal code, women can face the death penalty if they are accused of "corruption on earth."

Furthermore, the law grants broader powers to Iran's security services and increases the use of technology and surveillance in implementing these measures, the report said.

LINK