Arms Under State Control: Iraq’s push to confine weapons to the state is back in the spotlight after an Iran-aligned faction leader rejected any “understandings” with forces backing Israel, warning that “force and weapons” remain his line. Amnesty Watch: Nineveh’s former governor Nawfal Al-Aakoub was released under Iraq’s General Amnesty Law after years in detention tied to corruption and public-fund waste cases. Drug Crackdown: Iraqi police in Maysan dismantled an international crystal meth network and seized 1 kilogram; separate operations also netted thousands of pills in Anbar. Banking Agenda in London: A high-level Iraqi banking delegation wrapped up talks in London with the Central Bank and private banks, aiming to plug Iraqi private lenders into the global system. Security Pact with Spain: Baghdad approved a bill to ratify a Spain cooperation deal on security and fighting transnational crime, with Spanish forces training Iraqi counterterror units. World Cup Entry Friction: Visa and entry problems hit the tournament’s build-up, including Iraq’s team photographer being denied entry at O’Hare and wider criticism from immigrant advocates in Chicago. Regional Energy Shift: With Hormuz disruption continuing, Iraq and the UAE are advancing alternative oil routes, including expanding exports via Kurdistan–Turkey pipeline links. Road Safety: A rollover near Diwaniyah killed five, including three children, with one woman injured.