Politics

Political disunity clouds KRG fiscal and energy outlooks

Deadlocked talks over forming a new regional Cabinet highlight a bitter rivalry between two ruling parties that poses risks to Kurdistan's economy and energy sector.

PUK President Bafel Talabni (left) meets with KDP President Massoud Barzani (right) on Sept. 27, 2025. (Photo credit: KDP presidency office)

Feb 17, 2023

TotalEnergies extends deadline to conclude $27bn Iraq deal

After negotiations nearly fell apart two weeks ago, the French firm gave until Feb. 15 to finalize a deal — a deadline now extended by one month.

Feb 14, 2023

KRG misses deadline to end gas flaring

Payment delays to oil companies and bureaucratic disarray have kept the KRG from meeting its own ambitious target for ending the wasteful and polluting practice at several fields.

Feb 8, 2023

Central bank raises value of Iraqi dinar

The new rate, which takes effect immediately, aims to ease financial strain on Iraqis but could make Iraq more vulnerable to future crises.

Feb 4, 2023

TotalEnergies reverses Iraq exit decision, reviving hope for mega-deal

"Goodwill gesture" keeps the door open to further negotiations ahead of a Feb. 15 deadline, but key points of contention still appear unresolved.

Jan 31, 2023

Iraq-Turkey arbitration moves one step closer to final ruling

A draft ruling is pending approval by the International Court of Arbitration, with Kurdistan's oil independence potentially hanging in the balance.

Jan 29, 2023

Oil minister appoints new deputies and removes several DGs

Hayyan Abdulghani's leadership team is taking shape, with some high-profile promotions and departures.

Jan 26, 2023

Iraqi court strikes down Kurdistan budget transfers

Iraq's highest court ruled against stop-gap financial transfers seen as key confidence-building measures in a sputtering rapprochement between Baghdad and Erbil.

Jan 24, 2023

As Iraq’s currency weakens, Sudani replaces central bank governor

Iraq's prime minister reshuffles the leadership of the Central Bank of Iraq and the Trade Bank of Iraq amidst efforts to stabilize the weakening dinar.

Dec 15, 2022

Turkish strikes threaten Syrian crude exports to Iraqi Kurdistan

Turkey’s latest military campaign is targeting energy infrastructure in northeast Syria, depriving the Kurdish-led autonomous region of fuel and power — and potentially export revenue.

Dec 13, 2022

Sudani seeks warmer ties with KRG, starting with budget talks

The 2023 national budget is the first test of the new Iraqi prime minister's pledge to improve relations between Baghdad and Erbil.