THE IRAQI AND AMERICAN FOREIGN MINISTERS DISCUSS GOVERNMENT FORMATION AND REVIEW REGIONAL CHALLENGES
Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein discussed with US Deputy Secretary of State Michael Regas on Tuesday joint cooperation in various political, economic and security fields and the regional and international challenges facing the region. While stressing the need to expedite the formation of the federal government, Hussein called for a review of travel warnings to Iraq.
This came during Fuad Hussein’s reception of the US Deputy Secretary of State in Baghdad, where the meeting discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations between Iraq and the United States, and to follow up on frameworks for joint cooperation in various political, economic and security fields.
According to a statement issued by the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and received by Shafaq News Agency, the meeting included a review of “regional and international challenges facing the region, including efforts to achieve stability, the need to support dialogue, with a focus on the situation in Syria and Iran, and the importance of working to reduce tension and build understanding to enhance security and stability in the region.”
Hussein emphasized the importance of de-escalating regional tensions, stressing Iraq’s role in supporting stability efforts. He also reviewed the political developments following the elections.
He stressed “the need to expedite the formation of the federal government in accordance with constitutional timelines, while taking into account the balance between political forces to ensure the regularity of the democratic process and the activation of parliament and government, in a way that contributes to the efficient and effective implementation of government programs.”
Hussein also praised the positive atmosphere that prevailed during the elections and the high voter turnout, stressing the importance of continued political stability in the country.
He pointed to the imminent opening of the US consulate in Erbil, and what it represents in terms of strengthening diplomatic cooperation between the two countries, while stressing the need to reopen the US consulate in Basra Governorate.
Hussein stressed the importance of “continued coordination between Iraq and the United States, and continued cooperation in the areas of economy, infrastructure and investment, in order to promote development and support the return of American companies to invest in Iraq.”
He also called for a review of travel warnings to Iraq, given the security stability the country is experiencing, and for facilitating investment opportunities.
For his part, Michael Regas expressed the United States’ appreciation for the progress Iraq has made in promoting stability and security, stressing his country’s support for efforts in this area.
He pointed to the importance of continued regional and international coordination to address economic, political and security challenges, stressing the importance of working within a positive bilateral relationship with the Iraqi government.
As we approach the end of 2025, many investors are asking: “Has the Iraqi Dinar RV begun?” The short answer: not yet. Despite earlier promises of a potential RV around this time, the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) has not executed the zero removal.
It’s important to remember: the RV does not have to happen on January 1st. There are options throughout the month, including early or late January releases. Patience is key.
Current Signals from the CBI
Recent information from contacts at the CBI indicates:
January 2026 is still considered a target for the reinstatement of the Dinar on Forex.
All reforms and economic projects undertaken by Iraq—like the Development Road Project, oil sector expansion, and Customs/Tariff improvements—are steps toward re-entering global markets.
Reports of delays or discouraging news are often influenced by external propaganda, notably from interests wishing to keep Iraq economically dependent on Iran.
Featured Snippet:
“The CBI continues to work toward the RV, with January 2026 still a target. Reforms and infrastructure projects support Iraq’s plan to re-enter global markets.
U.S. approval and other international regulatory requirements.
Execution of economic reforms to stabilize Iraq’s financial system.
Political considerations within Iraq, including parliamentary decisions and leadership appointments.
Global market readiness for the Dinar’s return to Forex.
Even though the RV hasn’t occurred yet, experts emphasize that it is still considered a mandatory step for Iraq’s long-term financial goals.
Political Context
Iraq’s political landscape continues to influence the RV timeline:
Iraq was under Chapter VII UN sanctions until December 2022.
The election of a pro-business, nationalist leader has increased public confidence.
Some political parties and “old guard” members continue to propagate delays, despite popular support for reform.
Featured Snippet:
“Political dynamics and international approvals contribute to the RV timing, but the CBI is committed to moving forward when conditions are ready.”
Q&A: Iraqi Dinar RV
Q1: Has the zero removal begun? A1: No, the zero removal has not yet started, but the CBI continues to target early 2026 for execution.
Q2: Why isn’t it happening immediately? A2: Factors include security issues, international approvals, economic reforms, and political dynamics.
Q3: Could it still happen in January 2026? A3: Yes, January remains a target, though the release could happen early or late in the month.
Q4: Why is the RV important? A4: Reinstating the Dinar on Forex is a critical step for Iraq’s economic growth, global market integration, and long-term financial stability.
Key Takeaways
The RV is still on the horizon, with January 2026 as the current target.
Economic reforms support Iraq’s plan to re-enter global markets.
Political and security factors affect the exact timing, but the plan is mandatory for future financial goals.
Patience and vigilance are essential for investors tracking the RV.
If I were you, I would keep the champagne in the frig. The show is not over until the fat lady at the circus sings….. lol.. lol.. It is early December and the CBI may still go ahead with removing the zeros in time for a January release. Oh… but remember it does not have to happen exactly on January 1st as there are thirty-one days in the month. They could also change the plan and remove the zeros in early January and release in late January. There are options.
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I wish I could tell everyone that the removing the of the zero has begun but it hasn’t. Here we sit, almost mid-December already and still waiting for the execution of what they told us months ago would occur at about now. Will we have to wait until mid 2026 or longer for the reinstatement?
I need everyone to listen carefully to the introduction AUDIO when you clicked on the blog today. It plays automatically. Yes, it’s a longer than usual commentary but it is on purpose. Even if this RV does not occur as we hoped in January our hopes and dreams are not all for nothing. Folks they are telling us now this is right around the bend and the dinar is going back to FOREX. It is not an option but a mandatory step for the future financial goals of Iraq.
Tell me…. why in hell would the CBI along with a huge effort from the GOI go through all these reforms and economic projects i.e. The Development Road Project, expansion of oil, Customs and Tariffs. etc., etc. if they were not serious to re-enter the global markets?
Come’ on folks why the gloomy faces when I tell you we might have to wait until 2026? Remember I am not hanging the possibility of early January 2026 until my CBI contact tells me to move on. We are still in the ballpark folks. There is lots of discouraging articles, mostly falsified information by the Iranian influence who want to keep the same old status quo of enriching Iran over Iraq.
So, we are not yet out of the proverbial ‘dog haus’ yet with this RV. All the messages we are getting from the CBI now tell us that January 2026 is still a target for the reinstatement. I have some doubts just as you do, but they are still insistent. I try not to let this news prejudice me too much as I like to see all of it backed up with more evidence. Yes, there is evidence too but there are also issues that must be worked out for the U.S. to allow it to progress. There are security concerns with Iran, but we all already know this, don’t we? You can refresh yourself on the list of the five issues in the September 16th Newsletter. So, what is the current news? Once again it evolves around these five (5) main issues. Surprise! Surprise!
We must remember that up until December 2022, Iraq was still under Chapter VII UN sanctions for repayment of War Reparations. Somehow Iraq managed to finally vote in a guy who is a true patriot of Iraq, a business man, like Trump, who saw the economic potential and knew how to “make Iraq great again” and “Iraq first”. Sound familiar?
The citizens luv him and voted for him in the last election by overwhelming majority (sound familiar again?) , but the political parties don’t seem to care what the people want. Was all the voting for nothing? If I was Al-Sadar I would have my people on the streets rioting to bring about the change necessary to open their ears to listen to the people. Al-Sudani had won the largest parliamentarybloc with nearly 50 seats or more. It should be a no brainer who should be the next prime minister. But they push out propaganda resurrect the old dinosaurs for prime ministers that failed Iraq as new candidates, really?
(Mnt Goat: Every week one or more of these types of articles shows up in the recent news from Iraq. Do you think this is important? How will the solve this? T
Central Bank of Iraq
Some types of currency, even less than 10,000 dinars, are not accepted from some banks, so the currency has accumulated among citizens to solve this problem in the latest guidelines of the Central Bank of Iraq, private banks and currency dealers. The Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) has issued new guidelines to deal with all types of Iraqi dinars.
The 250, 500 and 1000 Iraqi dinars are the least traded in the market, banks and currency dealers’ markets, and in some places are not accepted, so the small amount of money has accumulated among citizens.
The Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) had earlier said it had a shortage of cash, one of the reasons being the deterioration of the balance between the currencies, so they issued new guidelines and must deal with all types of Iraqi dinars.
Anwar Mousavi, a currency dealer, told Kurdistan24 that there is no problem in providing any kind of money to pay salaries and shop owners must cooperate in the markets.
Iraq spends about 7 trillion dinars monthly on salaries, the central bank said by the 10th of each month to end the transaction of the money in the markets, about 15 trillion dinars are withheld by citizens.
Economist Haider Sheikh said the central bank wants to solve the cash problem and eliminate the excuse of currency in transactions, so government offices and private banks have instructed to receive all kinds of money, because the money paid for salaries will not be in the market.
Previously, currency dealers and even some private banks accepted bills against the dollar at less than their value, but according to the new guidelines, bills will be accepted at the same value even if they are torn or old.
The global financial landscape is on the brink of a major transformation, influenced by economic, technological, and geopolitical factors. In a recent Jon Dowling podcast episode, guests MarkZ and Zester shared their expert perspectives on the upcoming financial shifts expected to unfold between late 2025 and early 2026.
Key Insights from MarkZ & Zester
1. Systemic Financial Challenges
MarkZ and Zester discussed the current global financial crises, emphasizing the potential collapse of fiat currencies. Amid inflation and currency devaluation, tangible assets such as gold and silver are regaining prominence as foundational monetary assets.
Featured Snippet:
“Gold and silver are expected to underpin new asset-backed digital currencies, offering stability as traditional fiat currencies weaken.”
2. The Role of Blockchain and Crypto
Zester highlighted the intersection of blockchain technology and precious metals, which is set to redefine financial infrastructure. Secure, transparent, and decentralized systems will enable more efficient wealth management.
Bitcoin and decentralized currencies are gaining significance in the new financial era.
The Clarity Act could reshape crypto regulation and adoption globally.
3. Geopolitical Shifts Impacting Global Finance
The discussion also covered economic transformations in Iraq, China, Vietnam, and the global movement toward alternative monetary systems such as the BRICS currency unit.
These developments suggest a multipolar financial world, challenging traditional Western dominance and creating new opportunities for diversification.
4. Precious Metals in a New Financial Era
As economies face instability, the value of tangible assets is becoming increasingly vital. According to MarkZ and Zester:
Gold and silver may form the backbone of emerging asset-backed digital currencies.
These assets could provide stability during periods of fiat currency volatility.
Q&A: Your Questions About the Great Wealth Transfer
Q1: What is the Great Wealth Transfer? A1: It refers to a global shift in wealth, driven by fiat currency collapse, asset-backed currency adoption, and blockchain technology integration.
Q2: How will blockchain affect traditional finance? A2: Blockchain enables secure, transparent, and decentralized financial transactions, reducing reliance on traditional banking systems.
A3: Many experts suggest including gold and silver in your portfolio as hedges against inflation and currency devaluation.
Q4: What is the BRICS currency unit? A4: It’s an emerging alternative monetary system aimed at reducing dependence on the US dollar and increasing multipolar global finance.
Key Takeaways
Decentralized and asset-backed currencies are the future.
Gold, silver, and blockchain will underpin the new financial architecture.
Geopolitical shifts are driving a multipolar financial system.
Staying informed and prepared is crucial for navigating the upcoming wealth transfer.
Featured Snippet:
“The next financial era will be decentralized, asset-backed, and technologically driven, offering opportunities for those ready to adapt.”
Watch & Learn More
For a deeper dive, watch the full Jon Dowling podcast episode featuring MarkZ & Zester:
Jon Dowling & Mark Z & Zester Discuss The Great Wealth Transfer Latest Updates
12-9-2025
The global financial landscape is on the cusp of a significant transformation, driven by a complex interplay of economic, technological, and geopolitical factors.
In a recent episode of the Jon Dowling podcast, guests MarkZ and Zester delved into the intricacies of this impending shift, offering insights into the critical changes expected to unfold around the end of 2025 and into early 2026.
MarkZ, with his extensive background in macroeconomic trends and asset-backed currencies, joined forces with Zester, an expert in blockchain technology and crypto market dynamics, to provide a comprehensive analysis of the current state of global finance.
Their conversation highlighted the systemic financial crises faced worldwide, with a particular emphasis on the looming collapse of fiat currencies and the concurrent rise of asset-backed digital currencies.
The discussion centered around the growing importance of gold and silver as foundational monetary assets, a theme that has gained significant traction in recent years.
As the world grapples with the challenges of inflation, currency devaluation, and economic instability, the appeal of tangible assets like precious metals has never been more pronounced. MarkZ and Zester posited that these assets will play a critical role in the emerging financial order, underpinning the value of new, asset-backed digital currencies.
The intersection of precious metals and blockchain technology is particularly noteworthy.
The advent of blockchain innovations is set to revolutionize wealth generation and financial infrastructure, enabling the creation of secure, transparent, and efficient financial systems.
This fusion of traditional value stores with cutting-edge technology is poised to redefine the global financial architecture.
The conversation also touched on the role of cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, in the evolving decentralized economy.
As the world moves towards alternative monetary systems, the importance of decentralized currencies is becoming increasingly evident. The Clarity Act, a significant piece of legislation, was also discussed, highlighting its potential impact on the crypto landscape.
Zester’s insights into blockchain technology shed light on the vast potential of this innovation to transform financial infrastructure.
By enabling secure, decentralized, and transparent transactions, blockchain is set to play a pivotal role in the new financial era.
The podcast episode also explored significant geopolitical developments, including economic shifts in Iraq, China, Vietnam, and the global movement towards alternative monetary systems like the BRICS currency unit.
These changes are indicative of a broader trend towards a more multipolar world, where traditional Western dominance is being challenged by emerging economies.
The BRICS currency unit, in particular, represents a significant development in the push towards alternative monetary systems. As countries seek to reduce their dependence on the US dollar, the emergence of new currency units and financial infrastructure is likely to gain momentum.
Despite the challenges posed by the impending economic shift, MarkZ and Zester concluded their discussion on an optimistic note.
As the world navigates the complexities of this transformation, community resilience and cooperation will be essential in mitigating the negative impacts and capitalizing on the opportunities that arise.
The new financial era promises to be characterized by a more decentralized, asset-backed, and technologically driven financial system. While the journey ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, the potential rewards are substantial.
By staying informed and adapting to the changing landscape, individuals and communities can position themselves for success in this emerging financial order.
For those interested in delving deeper into this topic, we recommend watching the full video of the Jon Dowling podcast episode featuring MarkZ and Zester.
Their insightful discussion offers a wealth of knowledge on the future of finance and the critical changes expected to unfold in the coming years.
TRUMP IS THE HERO OF THE BAGHDAD STREET… IRAQIS TELL RUDAW: WE AWAIT THE US PRESIDENT’S DECISION
In Baghdad, the most talked-about topic is the selection of the next prime minister. At the same time, citizens are not optimistic about the choices made by the Coordination Framework, believing that it “will nominate one of its members or someone close to it, who will be no different from his predecessors.” These are the prevailing opinions we heard from Iraqis here in the capital, Baghdad.
Rudaw Media Network surveyed the opinions of some Baghdad residents from various professions about their expectations regarding the new head of government. It became clear that US President Donald Trump is the “hero of the street,” and that they are waiting for his decisions and actions to intervene this time to choose “a just, honest, and strong prime minister who will resolve most of the outstanding issues.”
I met Raeda Faleh, a retiree, at the Iraq International Book Fair. She was the one who initiated the conversation after learning I was a journalist, asking in her colloquial Iraqi dialect, “Who will become prime minister?”
I replied, “I don’t know. What do you expect?” She fell silent, then replied despairingly, “I don’t expect anyone better than the previous ones. They’re all the same… the same mindset… the same corruption. And now we hear news about the government not having any money, and we retirees and other employees are worried about our daily lives. I worked for the government for almost 30 years, and today I receive a pension that barely covers my basic needs, 750,000 dinars, while a member of parliament works for less than three years, makes deals, takes all the perks, and then retires with an astronomical pension. Where is the justice? Where is their concern for the people?” She finished her remarks as she left, again in colloquial Arabic, “I’m going to look for a useful book… politics is a headache and a real headache.”
(Mnt Goat: Sounds like Congress and the Senate in the U.S. .. )
But Hussam Mustafa, a 27-year-old barber in the Karrada district, was more enthusiastic about US President Trump. He spoke while expertly wielding his scissors, saying, “Uncle Trump will come and change everything.
I’m optimistic about his statements and decisions.” I said, “Trump is the president of the United States, not the president of Iraq. Iraqis are the ones who should choose their prime minister and cabinet members.” He replied, “Iraq has waited for years, and a suitable prime minister hasn’t been chosen.”
He added, “I support al-Sudani staying. He has accomplished a lot, and he’s a humble man. A few weeks ago, he came for a walk here in Karrada, sat in a café (a coffee shop with a book), and talked with people. I was standing there listening to him. This hasn’t happened with any other senior Iraqi official.
(Again…. This sounds like Trump again….)
He received the most votes, and my family and I voted for him in the elections. Why shouldn’t he stay in his position?” He pointed out that “Trump is with al-Sudani, and I think he’ll stay for a second term.”
It is early December and the CBI may still go ahead with removing the zeros in time for a January release. Oh… but remember it does not have to happen exactly on January 1
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