Politics

Northern exports stalled by Baghdad-Erbil disputes

With southern oil exports choked off by war, Baghdad cannot use its only backup pipeline route because of a fight with the KRG over customs revenue control.

Oil tanks at Turkey's Mediterranean port of Ceyhan, which is run by state-owned Petroleum Pipeline Corporation (BOTAS). (UMIT BEKTAS/Reuters)

Apr 1, 2024

Pipeline repairs raise prospect of alternate Turkey export route

The Iraqi side of the Iraq-Turkey Pipeline is being rehabilitated, potentially transforming the political dynamics around oil exports via Turkey.

Mar 22, 2024

Iraq activates new deal to pay Iran for gas

Swap of Iraqi refined products for Iranian gas could help settle an $11 billion debt but also risks friction with U.S. over sanctions.

Mar 15, 2024

Deadlock persists over three provincial governors

Leadership vacuums in Kirkuk, Salahaddin, and Diyala provinces highlight the challenges of identity-based politics to effective governance.

Feb 22, 2024

Iran eludes accountability after strikes on Iraqi Kurdistan

After condemning violations of sovereignty, Baghdad and Erbil have not published investigative findings or taken action to deter further attacks by Iran and its proxy forces.

Jan 16, 2024

Progress on Kurdistan budget deal, but obstacles remain

Baghdad approves temporary funding deal but unresolved oil issues hang over a potential budget law amendment to unlock more reliable financial transfers.

Dec 23, 2023

Anti-U.S. attacks bring new phase of security challenges for Iraq

Sparked by the Gaza war, increased strikes on American targets highlight the weakness of an Iraqi government pinned between opposing political and military forces.

Nov 14, 2023

Baghdad-Erbil oil diplomacy raises hopes for pipeline progress

High-level meetings involving Baghdad and Erbil leaders and oil company representatives aim for deals needed to restart northern pipeline exports.

Nov 8, 2023

With new pipeline work, Baghdad moves toward purchase of Khor Mor gas

The consortium operating Kurdistan's most prolific gas field is negotiating a potentially paradigm-shifting deal to sell directly to Baghdad.

Oct 24, 2023

Deadly firefight highlights unresolved tensions over territorial disputes

Iraqi Army and Peshmerga forces clashed over a strategically important position near key energy assets.

Oct 12, 2023

Turkey gives official notice that pipeline can resume

Political obstacles within Iraq are still preventing crude exports from restarting after a formal letter from BOTAS to SOMO confirmed the pipeline is ready.