SOMO: The oil agreement between Baghdad and Erbil will be renewed
12/20/2025
The deputy director of SOMO announced that there are no problems with the oil agreement between Erbil and Baghdad, and it will be renewed.
Hamdi Shenkali, deputy director of the Iraqi Oil Marketing Company (SOMO), stated today regarding the oil agreement between Erbil and Baghdad and its expiration at the end of this month: “The agreement will be renewed and there is no problem with it.
Kurdistan Region oil will continue to flow as it is. Currently, exports have exceeded 200,000 barrels per day, and God willing, the quantity of exports will increase even more.”
Regarding the duration of the agreement, he said: “The agreement was set for a period of three months and ends on December 31, but in accordance with the budget law and to ensure continuity, it will be renewed later until the problems are fully resolved.”
He noted that Kurdistan Region oil is currently being delivered to the Iraqi Oil Ministry in Fishkhabur, which in turn transports the oil via pipeline to the port of Ceyhan. (LINK)
In his December 21, 2025 update, Frank26 delivers a comprehensive overview of Iraq’s monetary reform, political landscape, and security improvements.
The discussion centers on the reassessment of the Iraqi dinar’s sanctioned 1310 exchange rate, expected by year-end 2025, with implementation aligned for early 2026.
Frank connects banking reforms, reduced currency circulation, infrastructure modernization, and growing international engagement as coordinated signals of Iraq’s transition toward economic normalization and restored sovereignty.
🙏 A Personal and Spiritual Opening
Frank opens the video with a prayerful reflection, expressing gratitude for life, family, and community support. He openly acknowledges personal health challenges, emphasizing faith, patience, and resilience as guiding principles—both personally and professionally.
This tone sets the foundation for the update: measured optimism grounded in preparation, not hype.
💱 Iraqi Dinar Monetary Reform and Exchange Rate Reassessment
📉 The 1310 Exchange Rate Under Review
Frank explains that the sanctioned 1310 IQD exchange rate, established five years ago, is scheduled for formal reassessment by the end of 2025, with expectations of a revised rate becoming effective January 1, 2026.
Key points:
The review aligns with the five-year anniversary of the last devaluation
Monetary reform aims to restore purchasing power, not reduce value
A new rate is necessary for modern banking reforms to function properly
“Monetary reform does not reduce the value of the currency—it restores it.” — Frank26
📊 The Role of the Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER)
Frank frequently references an economist who stresses the importance of recalibrating Iraq’s Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER).
What REER Measures:
Currency competitiveness
Inflation-adjusted valuation
Trade balance sustainability
Reassessing the REER allows Iraq to:
Align its currency with real economic output
Stabilize imports and exports
Support long-term growth
🏦 Banking Reforms Converging at Year-End 2025
Frank highlights that multiple reforms are converging simultaneously, making late 2025 and early 2026 a strategic window.
Key Reforms Include:
Completion of banking sector reforms
Extension and alignment of the new import tax system
Cybersecurity upgrades
Digital banking infrastructure readiness
He notes that state-owned banks temporarily shutting down near year-end is consistent with standard auditing and transition procedures, not a sign of crisis.
📉 Central Bank of Iraq: Reduced Money Supply
Frank reiterates that the Central Bank of Iraq reduced currency circulation by approximately 5.5% in Q3 2025, a move designed to:
Control inflation
Stabilize prices
Prepare the economy for normalization
This action aligns with classic monetary tightening strategies used globally before currency realignment.
🏧 Visible Progress: Banking Infrastructure on the Ground
Frank points to tangible signs of reform:
First-ever ATM machines installed in the Hajiwa district of Kurdistan
Citizens accessing modern banking services
Clear movement away from cash dependency
These developments reflect operational readiness, not theory.
✈️ Security and International Confidence Rising
Two major indicators of improved security and confidence were highlighted:
A European airline landing in Baghdad for the first time in 35 years
Increased diplomatic and commercial engagement
Frank frames these events as confidence votes, not symbolic gestures.
🌍 Sovereignty Reinforced: UN Handover
Frank confirms that:
The United Nations has transferred control of its compound to Iraqi authorities
The UN mission is ending
Iraq is no longer under international supervision
This handover reinforces Iraq’s sovereign status, aligning with statements from Iraqi leadership and UN officials.
🇺🇸 U.S. Influence and Political Dynamics
Frank emphasizes significant U.S. involvement in Iraq’s political and economic direction:
Strong U.S. influence over government formation
Clear opposition to Iranian-aligned candidates
Former PM Nouri al-Maliki portrayed as politically sidelined
Frank asserts that Washington’s role is focused on stability, reform continuity, and security alignment.
⏳ Timeline of Key Events
Date
Event
Significance
Dec 20, 2020
Last devaluation to 1310
5-year milestone
End of Dec 2025
Exchange rate reassessment
Strategic review
Jan 1, 2026
New rate & reforms aligned
Normalization phase
Dec 21, 2025
ATMs arrive in Kurdistan
Banking modernization
Dec 21, 2025
European airline lands
Security validation
Dec 21, 2025
UN compound handed over
Sovereignty reinforced
❓ Q&A – Featured Snippet Ready
❓ Is the exchange rate changing on January 1, 2026?
Frank expects reassessment by year-end 2025, with implementation aligned for early 2026, though timing may vary.
❓ Does monetary reform reduce the value of the dinar?
No. The stated goal is to restore purchasing power and stability.
❓ Why are banking reforms tied to a new rate?
Modern banking systems require a realistic, functional exchange rate to operate efficiently.
❓ Are there real signs of progress?
Yes—ATMs, international flights, UN withdrawal, and reduced money supply all indicate tangible movement.
🔔 Key Highlights
Exchange rate 1310 under formal reassessment
Early 2026 targeted for normalization
Banking reforms and import tax alignment completed
ATMs installed in Kurdistan
European airline returns after 35 years
UN exits Iraq, confirming sovereignty
🧠 Final Analysis: Convergence, Not Coincidence
Frank’s update underscores a critical theme: convergence. Monetary reform, political stabilization, banking modernization, and international recognition are aligning within a narrow window. None of these events alone guarantees success—but together, they form a coherent picture of preparation.
This is not a moment of speculation. It is a moment of structural alignment.
FRANK26: Summary of Video Content: Frank’s Update on Iraqi Dinar, Monetary Reform, and Current Events
This video features Frank, a content creator focused on the Iraqi dinar and related geopolitical and financial developments. The tone is personal, reflective, and informative, blending prayerful opening remarks with detailed commentary on Iraq’s monetary reform, political dynamics, and regional security issues.
Key Themes and Insights
Spiritual Opening and Personal Reflection Frank begins with a heartfelt prayer, expressing gratitude for his life and family, and seeking divine guidance. He acknowledges his health challenges and the support from his community, emphasizing faith as a foundation of his work.
Iraqi Dinar Monetary Reform and Exchange Rate Reassessment
The current sanctioned exchange rate (1310) is set to be reassessed at the end of 2025, with expectations of a new exchange rate effective January 1, 2026.
An economist frequently referenced by Frank highlights the importance of recalibrating the real effective exchange rate (REER) as a strategic move to stabilize Iraq’s economy.
The monetary reform is tied to several major reforms and events converging at the end of 2025, including:
Completion of banking reforms.
Implementation of a new import tax system extended until year-end.
Cybersecurity improvements.
Frank stresses that monetary reform does not reduce the currency’s value but aims to restore purchasing power and economic stability.
Political Developments and U.S. Influence
The U.S. President (Donald Trump) is described as having significant control over Iraq’s monetary reform and political appointments, including the prime minister and key ministers (interior, finance, defense, central bank governor).
The coordination framework in Iraq is reportedly under pressure to select a prime minister aligned with U.S. interests, with strong warnings from Washington against appointing Iranian-affiliated candidates.
Former prime minister Nouri al-Maliki is attempting political maneuvering to regain power but is seen as a disruptive figure with a history of corruption and destabilization (including links to ISIS emergence in 2012). Frank and his sources believe Maliki will fail due to U.S. opposition.
Discussions include the disarmament of armed factions, signaling progress toward security and stability.
Security and Stability Indicators
Arrival of the first-ever ATM machines in the Hajiwa district of Kurdistan signals banking infrastructure modernization.
A European airline landing in Baghdad for the first time in 35 yearsis celebrated as a sign of improved security and international engagement.
The United Nations is transferring control of its compound to Iraqi authorities, marking the end of their mission.
The U.S. has invested heavily in Iraq, including an $800 million consulate in Kurdistan, underscoring its influence and commitment.
Banking Sector and Currency Management
Iraqi state-owned banks shut down operations temporarily until the new year for standard auditing.
The Central Bank of Iraq has reduced the total circulation of the Iraqi dinar by approximately 5.5% in Q3 2025, aiming to control inflation and stabilize prices.
Banking reforms are said to require a new exchange rate to function properly.
Community Engagement and Personal Notes
Frank acknowledges and thanks his audience for birthday wishes, sharing an emotional moment.
He discusses his personal gardening hobby as a metaphor for nurturing growth and patience.
Frank’s style is conversational and often humorous, with references to sports teams (Detroit Lions, Pittsburgh Steelers) and cultural anecdotes.
Timeline of Key Events and Expectations
Date
Event / Announcement
Notes
December 20, 2025 (5-year anniversary)
Last devaluation of Iraqi dinar (1310 rate) occurred
Marks a strategic milestone in monetary reform timeline
End of December 2025
Reassessment of exchange rate 1310 expected
New rate anticipated effective from January 1, 2026
January 1, 2026
Implementation of new exchange rate and banking reforms
Includes new import tax system, cyber security improvements, and economic stabilization
December 21, 2025
Arrival of new ATM machines in Kurdistan region (Hajiwa district)
First-ever ATMs indicating banking modernization
December 21, 2025
European airline lands in Baghdad after 35 years
Symbolizes growing security and international engagement
December 21, 2025
UN hands over compound control to Iraqi authorities
End of UN mission, reinforcing sovereignty
December 21, 2025
Iraqi state-owned banks shut down temporarily until new government forms
Standard auditing and transition process
December 21, 2025
U.S. delegation led by envoy Mark Zavaya to Baghdad for discussions
Focus on bilateral relations, government formation, and monetary reform
Definitions and Terms
Term
Definition / Explanation
Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER)
A weighted average of a country’s currency relative to an index or basket of other major currencies, adjusted for inflation differences. Used to measure currency competitiveness.
Monetary Reform
A process involving changes to currency value, banking regulations, and financial policy aimed at stabilizing and improving the economy.
Exchange Rate 1310
The current sanctioned official Iraqi dinar exchange rate set by the Central Bank of Iraq.
Coordination Framework
A political coalition/structure in Iraq involved in government formation and decision-making.
Banking Reforms
Changes in banking regulations and operations aimed at modernizing the financial sector in Iraq.
Key Quotes and Highlights
“Monetary reform does not reduce the value of the currency.” — Frank emphasizes that the reform is meant to restore value, not diminish it.
“Trump will pick your government… your interior minister, your finance minister, your defense minister, and the central bank governor.” — Illustrates U.S. influence over Iraqi governance.
“The new ATM machines have arrived in Kurdistan for citizens who have opened accounts.” — Signals tangible progress in banking infrastructure.
“The first European flight in 35 years lands in Baghdad, a big step forward for aviation and security.” — Highlights improving conditions.
“Maliki is trying to come back but has no teeth anymore.” — Political commentary on Maliki’s waning influence.
“The Central Bank of Iraq has reduced currency circulation by 5.5% in Q3 2025 to stabilize prices.” — Monetary policy action.
“The United States just spent $800 million on the consulate in Kurdistan, the largest in the world.” — Demonstrates U.S. strategic investment.
Summary Conclusion
Frank provides a detailed, insider-style update on Iraq’s ongoing monetary reform and political landscape as of late 2025. The reassessment of the Iraqi dinar exchange rate is expected by year-end 2025, with significant banking reforms and economic stabilization measures aligned with this timeline. Political control is heavily influenced by the United States, with efforts to exclude Iranian-aligned figures from power, notably sidelining former Prime Minister Maliki.
Security improvements are evidenced by renewed international flights and banking infrastructure upgrades, including new ATM installations in Kurdistan. The handover of UN assets signals growing Iraqi sovereignty. Frank’s commentary blends factual reporting with personal reflections, community engagement, and a hopeful outlook for Iraq’s economic future.
The video’s core message is one of cautious optimism, emphasizing that the complex interplay of political, economic, and security reforms is converging to support a stable and sovereign Iraq, with the United States playing a pivotal oversight role.
Keywords
Iraqi dinar
Monetary reform
Exchange rate reassessment
Real effective exchange rate (REER)
Banking reforms
Iraq sovereignty
U.S. influence in Iraq
Nouri al-Maliki
Kurdish banking infrastructure
UN handover
Economic stabilization
Import tax system
Central Bank of Iraq
Political appointments
Security improvements
This summary is strictly based on the video transcript content and reflects the information and opinions presented therein.
First comment from the Sudanese regarding the dollar exchange rate
12/16/2025 – Baghdad
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani confirmed on Tuesday (December 16, 2025) that changing the dollar exchange rate falls within the exclusive powers of the Central Bank of Iraq.
In a televised interview followed by “Baghdad Today”, Al-Sudani said: “Changing the dollar exchange rate is the sole prerogative of the Central Bank of Iraq,” stressing that “the government has managed to reduce the gap in the exchange rate between the official and parallel rates,”
indicating the government’s success in reducing the gap in the exchange rate.
Al-Sudani added: “We currently tend to maintain stability by fixing the exchange rate and not changing it from time to time to ensure market stability,” noting that “the government strongly supported correcting the conditions of private banks in order to bring them back into the market and to operate within international standards.” (LINK)
On December 20, 2025, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani declared that Iraq has successfully proven its sovereignty to the international community. Citing political and security achievements recognized by the United Nations, Sudani emphasized constitutional governance, national decision-making, and the conclusion of the UNAMI mission as evidence that Iraq has transitioned into a fully sovereign and stable state.
📰 Sudani: Iraq Has Achieved Major Political and Security Victories
Speaking on Saturday, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Sudani highlighted Iraq’s progress over recent years:
“We have achieved major political and security successes, with recognition from the United Nations and the international community.”
Sudani emphasized that Iraq’s advancement has not been symbolic, but institutional and constitutional, built through:
Sudani reaffirmed that Iraq’s governance framework is now firmly grounded in its constitution:
“We have proven to the international community that Iraq is a sovereign country, and we will continue to work within the framework of the Iraqi constitution.”
This statement reinforces:
Independent political authority
Internal resolution of disputes
Reduced external oversight
Sovereignty, in this context, is defined not by declarations, but by recognized governance capacity.
🌍 UNAMI’s End: A Confirmation, Not a Coincidence
Regarding the conclusion of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), Sudani stated that:
The end of UNAMI reflects the success of Iraq’s programs and plans across most political and security fields.
Why This Matters:
The UN does not exit unstable states
Mission completion follows measurable benchmarks
Iraq has met international requirements
The end of UNAMI aligns directly with Iraq’s claim of restored sovereignty.
🇺🇸 International Signals: U.S. Political Messaging on Iraq
In a separate development, U.S. Representative Joe Wilson and a special envoy associated with former President Donald Trump made public statements regarding Iraq’s future.
Wilson stated:
“I look forward to working with the Special Envoy to bring prosperity to Iraq and liberate it from Iran... there is no one more qualified than him to work on this issue for President Trump.”
Wilson shared a photo featuring:
The Iraqi flag
The American flag
The new Syrian flag
Interpretation:
While political in nature, the imagery and language suggest renewed strategic interest in Iraq’s independence, economic growth, and regional balance.
🧭 Iraq’s Position in a Changing Middle East
These statements—both domestic and international—highlight Iraq’s evolving position:
From supervised recovery → sovereign governance
From conflict zone → regional partner
From dependency → national authority
The messaging reflects recognition, not oversight.
⏳ Timeline Snapshot
Date
Event
Significance
Dec 20, 2025
Sudani confirms sovereignty
Official national statement
2025
UN recognition
International validation
Dec 31, 2025
UNAMI mission ends
End of UN oversight
Ongoing
Global diplomacy
Normalized relations
❓ Q&A – Featured Snippet Ready
❓ What did Sudani say about Iraq’s sovereignty?
He stated that Iraq has proven its sovereignty to the international community through political and security achievements.
❓ Why is UNAMI ending important?
It indicates that Iraq no longer requires UN assistance or supervision.
❓ Does this affect Iraq’s economy?
Yes. Sovereignty strengthens Iraq’s ability to manage monetary, fiscal, and investment policy.
❓ Are these changes internationally recognized?
Yes. Sudani explicitly cited recognition from the United Nations and global partners.
🔔 Key Highlights
Sudani confirms Iraq’s sovereignty
UN recognition acknowledged publicly
UNAMI mission ending reflects success
Constitution-based governance emphasized
Iraq increasingly treated as a peer nation
🧠 Final Analysis: Recognition Is the Final Step
Sovereignty is not claimed—it is acknowledged. The Prime Minister’s remarks, combined with UN mission closure and international diplomatic engagement, signal that Iraq has crossed from recovery into recognition. This transition carries long-term implications for governance, security, and economic normalization.
Iraq is no longer being managed. It is being recognized.
Clare:Sudani: We Have Proven Iraq’s Sovereignty to the International Community
12/20/2025
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Sudani said on Saturday that Iraq has achieved significant political and security victories in recent years and has proven its sovereignty to the international community.
"We have achieved major political and security successes, with recognition from the United Nations and the international community,” Sudani said, stressing the importance of resolving issues in accordance with the constitution and through national decisions.
He added, "We have proven to the international community that Iraq is a sovereign country, and we will continue to work within the framework of the Iraqi constitution.”
Regarding the completion of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), Sudani said the end of the mission reflects the success of Iraq’s programs and plans across most political and security fields. LINK
Article: "Trump envoy and Joe Wilson: We will make Iraq great again"
Quote: "Wilson, who is known for raising controversial issues and making provocative statements, particularly regarding Iraq and the Middle East, added: 'I look forward to working with the Special Envoy to bring prosperity to Iraq and liberate it from Iran...there is no one more qualified than him to work on this issue for President Trump.'...US Representative Joe Wilson posted a picture of himself with Trump's envoy, holding the Iraqi flag, with the American flag behind them and the new Syrian flag beside it."
Warning against using it to address the financial deficit… Economic Observatory: Iraq’s gold reserves at their highest levels
12/20/2025 Baghdad –
An economic observatory announced on Saturday that Iraq’s gold reserves have reached a record high of approximately $23.064 billion, while simultaneously warning against using or disposing of them to address the country’s financial deficit.
The observatory stated in a report that “Iraq purchased approximately 8.2 tons of gold during 2025, bringing the total reserve to 170.9 tons.” The report further explained that “this increase was distributed as follows: one ton in March, 1.6 tons in June, 3.1 tons in July, and 2.5 tons in August.”
The report indicated that “the total reserve of 170.9 tons is currently equivalent to $23.064 billion, the highest level of gold reserves in Iraq’s history.”
The observatory attributed “this significant increase to the rise in global gold prices, and not to the volume of purchases made during 2025,” explaining that “recent purchases represent approximately 6.4% of the total reserves since the beginning of this year.”
The observatory warned against “any m**********n or misuse of gold reserves to cover financial deficits, whether through selling a portion of them or investing them in high-risk ventures,” emphasizing that “gold is a sovereign asset dedicated to supporting financial stability, not to generating immediate revenue.” (LINK)
