Security

Iraq braces for change after Syria upheaval

Leaders across the political spectrum in Baghdad foresee new security threats, shifting political dynamics, and impacts on energy trade.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani discusses events in Syria at a meeting of the State Administration Coalition — the major political groups in Sudani's governing coalition — on Dec. 8, 2024. (Photo credit: Prime Minister's Office)

May 5, 2021

Insurgents bomb Bai Hassan oil field, exploiting security gaps

Kirkuk's oil fields lack adequate protection because so many security forces were removed in a government crackdown on corrupt units involved in smuggling.

Apr 15, 2021

The Royal Court restaurant, the oil insider, and the $100,000 bribe

In Nassiriya, the arrest of an oil official highlights a kind of corruption that usually stays in the shadows of political protection networks.

Apr 7, 2021

Escalating protests disrupt Dhi Qar energy sector

Political upheaval and unabated protests have once again boiled over, shutting down the Nassiriya refinery and causing fuel shortages.

Mar 22, 2021

Q&A: Lt. Gen. Saad Ali Aati al-Harbiya, former head of Kirkuk’s Joint Operations Command

Harbiya, who was moved to the Joint Operations Command in Baghdad last week, discusses the fight against insurgents, improving coordination among rival security services, and winning the trust of locals.

Mar 19, 2021

Q&A: Ninewa Gov. Najim al-Jibouri

The military commander-turned-governor says Mosul has largely succeeded in re-establishing security — but lagging support from Baghdad is hurting the local economy, including energy investment.

Mar 16, 2021

Q&A: PUK Co-President Lahur Talabany

The co-leader of Kurdistan's second-largest party discusses politicized oil policies, factionalized leadership, security risks, and Iraq's national budget.

Mar 9, 2021

Q&A: Omar al-Waili, director of the Iraqi Border Ports Commission

With shake-ups at Iraqi border ports, the Kadhimi administration is trying to combat corruption, increase revenues, and reinforce federal government authority.

Jan 20, 2021

Power station bombed as insurgents exploit northern Iraq security gaps

Security leaders in Baghdad and Erbil have failed to implement plans to set up joint coordination centers.

Dec 9, 2020

Khabbaz wells burn as security in northern oil sector worsens

Detonations at two wells early Wednesday are the latest example of inadequate security across northern Iraq.

Dec 9, 2020

Sarqala field stops trucking as Kurdistan protests expand

Field is not under threat. Decision by Gazprom Neft protects 100-plus daily tanker trucks exporting the crude.