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Security

Baghdad-Erbil progress fuels hope for counter-insurgency fight

The formation of two joint brigades highlights improving cooperation that could help combat IS militants and close security gaps.

Lt. Gen. Qasim Mohammed al-Mohammadi, commander of federal Iraqi ground forces, receives progress updates on two newly formed joint brigades while visiting command centers in Kirkuk, Salahaddin, and Diyala provinces on Sept. 25, 2024. (Photo credit: Ministry of Defense)

Blast stops northern oil exports

The northern export pipeline has stopped working after an attack in an area that was once a major scene of insurgent attacks.

Oil workers nabbed in Kirkuk – UPDATE

Kidnappings latest violence in tense area with billions of barrels of oil at stake and Arab vs. Kurd dispute over control of the territories.

Brits back in Basra

Parliament ratifies new security accord with UK, British Navy to return for training Iraqi Navy on oil terminal protection.

Q&A: Security Snapshot

Michael Knights of security firm Olive Groups explains the security trends in Iraq, with an eye on the energy sector.

Iraqi forces step up oil protection

Recent attacks highlight decreasing vulnerability of oil and gas infrastructure and increasing ability of Iraq’s security forces to respond.

Prevention, attacks target oil

Basra refinery targeted days after Jihadist website promotes oil sector attacks, while government crackdown causes delays at gas stations.

Oil insecurity

Iraqi officials worry oil export terminals are vulnerable with British Navy gone, but Americans assure vital export routes are safe for now.