Strait of Hormuz Security: Oman’s FM said responsibility for mine-related hazards in the Strait of Hormuz and shipping lanes “primarily rests with Iran,” as US-Iran talks in Doha remain uncertain. Oil & Trade Corridors: Iraq and Syria agreed to revive energy links, including a plan to rehabilitate the Iraq-to-Syria oil pipeline, plus a joint committee covering energy, agriculture, water, transport, and border ports. OPEC Pressure: Iraq is pushing for a bigger OPEC production quota to ease revenue strain after export disruptions tied to regional conflict, with talk of reassessing options if quota increases don’t come. Anti-Corruption Drive: Baghdad’s Green Zone saw raids and arrests of current and former officials in a major anti-graft crackdown, signaling a “first phase” of political accountability. Diplomacy for Industry: Iraq’s FM visited Syria to deepen cooperation after Assad’s fall, while Iraq also moved to expand transport and logistics ties, including a draft bilateral transport agreement with Armenia. Business & Manufacturing: RAK Ceramics signed an exclusive licensing deal with Roberto Cavalli to produce and distribute branded ceramic tiles, sanitaryware, and faucets across Iraq and the region. Culture & Media: Doha Film Institute backed 48 projects from 39 countries, including Iraq-based filmmakers, in its 2026 Spring Grants cycle. International Outreach: Thailand approved establishing an Iraqi embassy, aiming to boost energy, trade, investment, and tourism coordination.