Iraq has been transferring large volumes of high-sulfur fuel oil to Iranian traders in a deal to help resolve energy import debts.
Leaders across the political spectrum in Baghdad foresee new security threats, shifting political dynamics, and impacts on energy trade.
The Karkh Court of Appeals has denied an Oil Ministry appeal and reversed a series of 2022 rulings that declared several KRG oil contracts void.
The revival of a “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran is likely to extend into Iraq, with implications for domestic politics, banking, and the oil sector.
Budget legislation that could have helped restart Iraq’s northern crude exports is delayed until at least January.
Iraq's main political factions appear to have an initial agreement for paying Kurdistan's oil companies for exports, but legislative, legal, and practical hurdles remain.
The oil minister is back at his desk after a health scare, but his multi-week absence surfaced unresolved political rivalries that could shake up oil sector leadership.
The formation of two joint brigades highlights improving cooperation that could help combat IS militants and close security gaps.
A new era of financial integration with Baghdad has provided the KRG with badly needed budget support while also exposing new levels of political vulnerability.
Changing political and security dynamics have the potential to complicate burgeoning oil and gas development in the province.
