Baghdad: Iraqi newspapers on Thursday focused on the ongoing financial crisis and the progression of political developments, emphasizing a variety of political, security, and economic issues. According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Zawraa, a newspaper issued by the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate, reported that the Central Bank of Iraq acknowledged a financial crisis due to declining oil prices and reduced market liquidity, which are negatively impacting Iraq's foreign currency reserves. The report from the Central Bank highlighted the vulnerability of Iraq's reserves to fluctuations in global oil prices, as they are closely tied to oil revenues. The Central Bank's monetary sterilization measures, aimed at absorbing market liquidity, were noted to have a negative impact, necessitating the use of foreign reserves. The report detailed a drop in oil prices from USD 81 per barrel in the second quarter of 2024 to USD 69 per barrel in the same period of 2025, leading to a decrease in revenues from IQD 142.69 tri llion to IQD 126.16 trillion. The Central Bank's efforts to withdraw cash liquidity to maintain monetary stability resulted in an increase in cash receipts from IQD 18.37 trillion to IQD 21.66 trillion, reflecting higher dollar sales. This was compounded by the federal budget deficit affecting net foreign reserves. Nevertheless, Prime Minister's Financial Adviser Madhhar Mohammed Saleh assured that there is no severe liquidity crisis in the short term, as long as oil revenues remain stable and fiscal and monetary policies are coordinated. Al-Sabah newspaper, published by the Iraqi Media Network, spotlighted the imminent resolution of upcoming political entitlements amid intensifying negotiations as deadlines approach. The newspaper described the political scene as witnessing acceleration in negotiations due to the approaching constitutional deadlines and the setting of the first parliamentary session date by the President of the Republic. Ayat Mudhaffar Al-Nouri from the National State Forces Alliance state d that the list of candidates for Prime Minister has narrowed, with final decisions expected soon. Political analyst Ali Al-Baidar indicated that the National Political Council is leaning towards nominating Muthanna Al-Samarrai for the speakership of parliament, owing to his political support and broad acceptability. Al-Baidar projected that the Council would finalize its choice next week, aiming to foster a stable political environment conducive to broader dialogue among parties. Kurdish writer and journalist Saeed Mamozini noted ongoing differences regarding the presidency of the republic, with recent meetings yielding no decisive outcomes. Al-Zaman newspaper highlighted heavy rainfall's impact on Iraq's water resources and agricultural sector, particularly in the marshlands amidst a critical water situation. The Mesopotamian Marshes Revival Center anticipated that the recent rainfall would enhance water and agricultural conditions, gradually increasing water levels in the marshes. Director Adnan Al-Mousa wi expressed hope that the floods would improve the country's water conditions, as strategic water reserves have reached their lowest levels. Al-Mousawi explained that upstream floods are being directed toward dams and reservoirs to secure reserves, with excess water released into the Tigris and Euphrates rivers to restore the marshlands. Despite drought conditions, the marshland areas continue to support tourism, with dredged water channels preventing a halt in tourist activities. The gradual inundation of the marshes is expected to sustain tourism as water levels rise.
