Latest news with #British-Iraqi
Iraqi News
07-07-2025
- Business
- Iraqi News
US sanctions on Iran oil smuggling threaten to hinder Iraq's investment drive
Baghdad ( – A new wave of intensified U.S. sanctions targeting Iranian oil smuggling networks is threatening to create significant collateral damage for Iraq's own economic ambitions, according to a recent report by the energy-focused American website The analysis suggests that as Washington escalates its 'maximum pressure' campaign against Tehran, Iraqi entities and infrastructure are being caught in the crossfire, potentially hindering Baghdad's efforts to attract international investment. This new phase of sanctions comes just weeks after a hypothetical second Trump administration conducted major military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The U.S. Treasury Department has now designated over 30 new entities, individuals, and vessels involved in what it calls an illicit, multi-billion-dollar trade network. The report highlights that the sanctions focus on a network allegedly run by British-Iraqi citizen Salim Ahmed Saeed. According to the U.S. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), this network has been smuggling Iranian oil by disguising it as or mixing it with Iraqi oil since at least 2020. Specific Iraqi-linked assets have been targeted, including the VS Oil Terminal at Iraq's Khor Al-Zubair port, which is owned by Saeed. The U.S. also noted ship-to-ship transfers occurring near this terminal and pointed to the routine use of forged documents to mask the oil's origin. The sanctions also named the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker 'Dijla' and other UAE-based companies and vessels involved in the network, some of which facilitated sales for Iran's IRGC-Quds Force. For Iraq, the implications are severe. The report argues that while Baghdad is actively trying to boost cooperation and investment with the West, sanctions that include Iraq-linked operators can make international investors wary of entering the country's vital oil, gas, and port sectors. This development adds another layer of instability to an already complex situation. Iraq is still navigating its own energy needs, internal political dynamics including the federal-KRG oil dispute, and the presence of armed factions. The broader U.S.-Iran conflict directly exacerbates these political and economic uncertainties. The report frames Washington's actions as a dual strategy under a second Trump administration: first, to exert maximum economic pressure on Tehran to force negotiations, and second, to actively attempt to pull Iraq into the Western sphere of influence, countering the growing regional roles of China and Russia. Ultimately, Iraq finds itself in a perilous position—geographically and economically tied to Iran, yet seeking the Western investment necessary for its development. Navigating this geopolitical minefield will be a critical challenge for Baghdad as it tries to pursue its own national interests amidst a major regional power struggle.
New York Post
07-07-2025
- New York Post
Ultra-exclusive Romeo Roma is visionary architect Zaha Hadid's last hotel project
Zaha Hadid's last hotel project is one for the ages. Romeo Roma, a spectacular new five-star property in Rome's historic center, is built inside a 16th-century landmarked palazzo. The innovative interiors span eras: Original Renaissance frescoes in five 'noble-level' suites are juxtaposed with the late British-Iraqi architect's futuristic forms while an ancient marble bust of empress Livia Drusilla unearthed during the renovation sits near contemporary works by Francesco Clemente, Mario Schifano and Christian Leperino. The glass-bottomed pool, meanwhile, reveals remarkable Roman relics discovered just below. With its striking mix of antiquities and avant-garde elegance, this is a new address for travelers seeking extraordinary accommodations. And it's ultra-exclusive – so much so that apart from Il Ristorante Alain Ducasse, which is open to the public, access inside is limited to hotel guests. 13 Romeo Roma is located in Rome's historic center, close to Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps. The ROMEO Collection 13 Five of the suites feature original Renaissance frescoes. CHRIS DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY The 74-room addition to The Romeo Collection, the luxury Italian hospitality brand founded by Neapolitan lawyer and entrepreneur Alfredo Romeo, opened in December. The first Romeo hotel debuted in Naples in 2008 and a Massa Lubrense location on the Sorrento Coast, across from the island of Capri, is slated for later this year. The Rome edifice unites the best of the design, culinary and wellness worlds. Just last month, it won a coveted spot on the Prix Versailles' 'World's Most Beautiful Hotels' in 2025 list for its 'exceptional architecture and design.' 13 The museum-like lobby is decorated with antiquities, contemporary art and a lipstick-red piano. GIULIA VENANZI 13 The swimming pool's glass bottom reveals ancient Roman ruins that were unearthed during the excavation. The ROMEO Collection Romeo bought the building on the tony Via di Ripetta, steps from Piazza del Popolo, in 2012. Originally the palace of the Serroberti-Capponi family, it changed hands several times before becoming headquarters of the Jesuit journal Civiltà Cattolica and then, from 1951 onwards, offices of the Italian government's Italian Workers' Compensation Authority. Romeo enlisted Zaha Hadid to radically transform the edifice. A rock star in her field, she was twice awarded Britain's Stirling Prize for architecture and in 2004 became the first woman to win the Pritzker Prize, known as the 'Nobel Prize of architecture.' She had already begun working on Romeo Roma when she died in 2016 of a heart attack, and her practice completed the project posthumously. 13 A glossy walnut-clad room has a Zaha Hadid fireplace, among other amenities. CHRIS DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY 13 A corridor with ebony, marble and steel accents. CHRIS DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY 13 The Penthouse Suite has a private rooftop terrace. CHRIS DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY As many elements of the building are listed, Zaha Hadid Architects devised a 'second skin' that fits inside the original structure. Not only are the archistar's signature undulating walls and vaulted ceilings in Macassar ebony, marble, steel and textured brass seductively chic, but they conceal the systems and smart technology. The project lasted more than a decade, slowed by the discovery – and careful preservation – of a Roman wall and workshop beneath the courtyard. Working with the finest materials, from Macassar ebony and Canaletto walnut to Italian marble, artisans crafted the intricate cladding and flooring that accents every space. The polished rooms and suites are appointed with furnishings by B&B Italia, Poltrona Frau and custom pieces from Romeo Design. They are simultaneously warm and state-of-the-art. 13 Il Ristorante Alain Ducasse is the Michelin-starred chef's first restaurant in Rome. CHRIS DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY 13 La Terrazza, the chic rooftop bar operated in partnership with Krug champagne, boasts panoramic views of the city. GIULIA VENANZI The gastronomic program is equally cutting-edge. Michelin-starred French chef Alain Ducasse, whose first restaurant in Italy opened last year at Romeo Napoli, unveiled his second signature outpost in the country on-site. Guests choose between à la carte specialties or four-, six- or nine-course tasting menus made with seasonal Italian ingredients. Standouts include Mediterranean blue lobster with red berries and rhubarb and chocolate and coffee from Alain Ducasse Manufacture in Paris paired with buckwheat ice cream. The restaurant also serves a sumptuous à la carte breakfast with sweet, savory and pastry options. The cloud-like French toast with whipped cream is not to be missed. 13 Il Cortile restaurant offers all-day al fresco dining in the leafy courtyard. CHRIS DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY 13 Il Bar has a novel ceiling design that allows light to pass through. CHRIS DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY Il Cortile, meanwhile, offers all-day classic Italian fare in the leafy courtyard. Il Bar serves craft cocktails made with local ingredients and wine while La Terrazza, a skybar with panoramic views of the Eternal City, is a partnership with French Champagne house Krug. 13 The wellness center includes La Spa Sisley Paris, a salt room, hammam, floating room, pool and more. CHRIS DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY 13 The wood-lined Fitness Center is geared with Technogym equipment. CHRIS DALTON PHOTOGRAPHY Relaxation is on the menu at La Spa Sisley Paris. Book one of the famed French beauty company's Phyto-Aromatic facial and body treatments, then laze in the salt room, hammam, floating room and emotional shower enhanced with colored lights and aromatherapy. Or take a dip in the indoor-outdoor pool, which starts inside the spa, winds under a footbridge and ends in the courtyard. With the 2,000-year-old Ripetta port visible through the transparent floor, it's an amazing past-meets-present experience. Rooms from $2,950 at
Shafaq News
07-05-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
BPUR International urges Iraqi PM to support treaty against political use of religion
Shafaq News/ The BPUR International, a UK-based NGO, called on Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to support a global initiative to establish an international treaty banning the political exploitation of religion. In an official letter to the Prime Minister, the organization expressed appreciation for al-Sudani's interest in the initiative during a meeting in London months earlier and for the ongoing communication between Iraqi representatives and the initiative's team. It also praised the Prime Minister's role in 'promoting regional stability and guiding Iraq toward recovery and development.' Founded by British-Iraqi writer Salam Sarhan, the initiative, now five years in the making, has expanded beyond its Iraqi roots and is gaining international momentum. According to the letter, the Council of Europe is expected to formally endorse the initiative after two years of deliberations, and it has already secured support from over 80 countries and engaged in direct dialogue with dozens of governments, particularly from the Arab and Islamic worlds. The proposed treaty seeks to translate respect for all religions into 'clear, universally recognized standards that prohibit the misuse of religious sanctity for political purposes.' The letter also emphasized that the initiative is in full alignment with the Iraqi constitution and resonates with the values of responsible governments worldwide. BPUR International highlighted the initiative's simplicity as a key strength, arguing that it is difficult for any political party or government to reject without appearing to condone religious exploitation. It added that Iraqi religious leaders are among the most enthusiastic supporters of the initiative, which has the potential to shift even hardline actors toward tolerance and moderation. Calling it a 'proactive Iraqi step,' the organization noted the 'historical significance of such a proposal originating from Iraq—land of ancient civilizations and sacred heritage—long affected by religious politicization.' The letter also linked the initiative to Iraq's November 2025 elections, stating that banning the political use of religion reflects the aspirations of many Iraqi voters and could help increase turnout, particularly after low participation in previous elections, which was partly attributed to religious manipulation. BPUR International revealed that a major development is expected soon: the Council of Europe's decision urging its 46 member states to adopt and promote the initiative. In addition, the organization is preparing to host a global conference at the Italian Senate in Rome on September 25, bringing together officials, parliamentarians, and international figures from dozens of countries to launch a coalition in support of the treaty and chart its path to the United Nations. The organization has formally invited Prime Minister al-Sudani or his representative to attend the Rome conference and present Iraq's experience in defeating terrorism, which it describes as a critical contribution to global peace and security. BPUR also proposed that Baghdad host an international conference titled 'Global Standards to Disarm Extremism' to reinforce Iraq's central role in the initiative and enhance its regional and global leadership in addressing religious extremism. 'This is Iraq's initiative on the global stage,' the letter concluded. 'It can help stabilize the region and the world, and it needs your support at this advanced stage of official dialogue with dozens of governments and international bodies.' The letter was signed by Salam Sarhan, Founder and Secretary-General of BPUR International.
Shafaq News
07-05-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
Initiative calls on Al-Sudani to ban the political exploitation of religion
Shafaq News/ On Tuesday, 'Bepure International' called on Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to support a global initiative seeking to establish an international treaty banning the political exploitation of religion. In a letter to al-Sudani, Bepure International emphasized that the initiative, which was launched five years ago, has Iraqi origins, founded by British-Iraqi writer Salam Sarhan. Now on the international agenda, the initiative proposes a comprehensive solution to the root causes of religious conflicts, advocating for a treaty based on fundamental justice to prohibit the use of religion for political purposes that violate the rights of others. According to a statement from 'Bepure', the initiative has garnered broad international support, with backing from over 80 countries and ongoing discussions with numerous governments, including those in the Arab and Islamic world. It is also expected to receive formal endorsement from the Council of Europe after two years of deliberations. The initiative underscores deep respect for all religions while translating these values into clear, internationally recognized standards designed to prevent the political exploitation of religious sanctity. The organization views this proposal as a proactive step from Iraq, offering a model for addressing this issue grounded in Iraq's values and history. The timing of the appeal, coinciding with Iraq's crucial upcoming elections, is seen as significant since the organization believes that banning political exploitation of religion aligns with the aspirations of the Iraqi people and could help drive voter turnout, particularly after previous elections saw low participation due to such exploitation.
Rudaw Net
07-04-2025
- Politics
- Rudaw Net
Trump says ‘direct' talks with Iran have begun, hints at military action if talks fail
Also in World Why does Trump want Greenland? Russia rejects Trump's threats against Iran as US expands military presence British-Iraqi doctor's fourth volunteer mission to Gaza blocked US congresswoman goes viral for pushing parental leave voting reform A+ A- ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - US President Donald Trump on Monday said that 'direct talks' between Washington and Tehran have begun, just days after Iranian officials stressed that they are pursuing 'indirect negotiations.' Trump additionally expressed his preference for diplomacy but did not rule out military action if the talks are unsuccessful. "We're having direct talks with Iran, and they have started," Trump told reporters at the White House after a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. 'Maybe a deal [with Iran] is going to be made. That would be great. We are meeting very importantly on Saturday [April 12], at almost the highest level,' he added. The US president's remarks notably come two days after Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Saturday stated that his country is open to 'indirect talks' with Washington and ruled out direct engagement. 'In principle, direct negotiations with a party that constantly threatens to resort to force in violation of the United Nations Charter and that expresses contradictory positions by its various officials would be pointless, but we remain committed to diplomacy and are willing to try the path of indirect negotiations,' Araghchi said. Prior to that, on March 27, Iran said it had responded to a letter from Trump, delivered via Oman, reiterating that it would not engage directly with the US, as long as Washington's 'maximum pressure' campaign was in place. On March 7, Trump had told Fox Business that he sent a letter to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, signaling openness to negotiations while warning that military action remained on the table if Iran refused to cooperate. Since returning to office, Trump in early February reinstated his administration's 'maximum pressure' policy on Iran, accusing Tehran of moving 'too close' to developing a nuclear weapon. Despite the pressure, the US president has repeatedly expressed willingness to strike a new deal with Iran. In his Monday remarks, Trump notably added that both the US and Israel would prefer a diplomatic solution over military confrontation. However the US president also pointed to possible military action against Iran if the talks are unsuccessful. 'I think everybody agrees that doing a deal would be preferable to doing the obvious, and the obvious is not something that I want to be involved with, or frankly, that Israel wants to be involved with, if they can avoid it,' he said. He threatened that Iran will be in great danger if the talks fail. "I think if the talks aren't successful with Iran, I think Iran is going to be in great danger. And I hate to say it. Great danger. Because they cannot have a nuclear weapon,' he said. On March 29, the US President had warned that 'there will be bombing' against Iranian interests if Tehran fails to reach an agreement with Washington over its nuclear program. 'If they don't make a deal [with the US] there will be bombing, and it will be bombing the likes of which they have never seen before,' Trump told NBC News. In an indirect response to Trump's threats, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on March 31 warned of a strong response if Iran is attacked. 'They threaten to commit evil,' but 'if evil is committed, the counterattack will definitely be mutually strong,' Khamenei said. Additionally, a senior aide to Khamenei, Ali Larijani, on the same day suggested that Tehran may pursue nuclear weapons if attacked by the US or Israel. The remarks signalled a possible shift in policy under Khamenei, who has long opposed such weapons on religious grounds. Amid the heightened tensions, the US has been beefing up its military presence within operational range from Iran. It recently deployed the USS Carl Vinson and USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier strike groups to the Middle East, along with up to six B-2 stealth bombers stationed at Diego Garcia - a US-British military base in the Indian Ocean. Additional fighter jets and surveillance aircraft have also been moved to the region, alongside Patriot missile defense batteries to bolster air defenses.
