AGP Executive Report
Last update: 11 hours agoMiddle East Energy Shock: Saudi Arabia shut its East-West crude pipeline after drone attacks tied by Riyadh to Iraq-linked sources, just as Iran-backed Houthis advanced toward the Bab el-Mandeb chokepoint, raising fresh oil-supply fears and pushing crude back above $100. Red Sea Shipping Risk: Reuters reports Houthis seized the strategic island of Perim (Mayun) and moved to tighten control over the Red Sea route, a move that could give Iran a second corridor to pressure global trade. Iraq-Saudi Diplomatic Fallout: Baghdad dismissed a senior official and opened an investigation after it said the drone attack originated from Iraq, while both sides stress they want to protect bilateral ties. Banking Oversight: Iraq’s Central Bank placed Al-Taif Islamic Bank under guardianship amid depositor concerns and wider scrutiny of institutions linked to dollar transfers tied to Iran-linked actors. Oil Export Plans: Iraq is looking to boost exports via Syria and Turkey, aiming to move more than 1 million bpd through pipelines to Baniyas and Ceyhan while raising total export capacity. Local Business & Skills: Five One Labs published its 2025 annual report, highlighting Kurdish-language incubation, digital skills, and SME-focused support in Kurdistan.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.