Iraq–Iran Air Links: Iraq’s transport ministry says Iraqi Airways will resume direct flights to Iran from Thursday, with daily routes from Najaf to Mashhad, Tehran and Isfahan after a US sanctions exemption/waiver; Iraq also previously allowed Iranian airlines (excluding Mahan Air) up to 40 daily flights to Najaf, and flights resumed Sunday. Security & State Control: With the US military mission ending, Baghdad is pushing to bring paramilitary groups under state control, setting a phased plan and a 30 June 2027 deadline, starting with a 90-day halt on military activity beginning 30 September. Oil, Shipping & FX Pressure: Middle East crude exports (excluding Iran) are reported back near pre-war levels in September, but with more cargoes bypassing the Strait of Hormuz via Saudi/UAE pipelines and Red Sea routes; at home, the US dollar reportedly surged past 160,000 IQD in Baghdad and Erbil parallel markets, widening volatility. Energy Infrastructure Deals: Türkiye says Iraq’s Development Road could become an $80B-a-year energy corridor, potentially moving up to 2.5 million bpd, after talks with Iraq’s oil minister in Ankara. Public Opinion: A 100-day survey on Ali al-Zaidi’s government finds high early satisfaction, but persistent worries over corruption and unemployment.