Politics

Analysis: Worsening internal rivalries weaken KRG at key political juncture

Conflict between the KDP and PUK has driven dysfunction in Erbil and weakened Kurdish influence in Baghdad as a new government takes power.

Bafel Talabani, president of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (left), meets with newly elected Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi (right), in Baghdad in May 2026. (Photo credit: Prime Minister's Office)

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.

Oct 4, 2023

Obstacles remain after Turkey signals pipeline is ready

Northern exports can only come online if Baghdad strikes new political and commercial agreements.