Iran protests bring new volatility to Iraq’s politics and markets

Rising threats to Iran's regime have the potential to weaken Tehran's influence in Baghdad and disrupt cross-border trade and currency dynamics.

A demonstration in Tehran on Jan. 12, 2026. (MASOUD SHAHRESTANI/Wikimedia Commons)

Energy

Iraq seeks backup options for West Qurna 2

As a sanctions deadline looms, Basra Oil Company is poised to manage the 480,000 bpd field while Lukoil continues negotiating to sell its stake.

Politics

Analysis: Iraq’s 2025 election results

Preliminary results paint a picture of the balance of power in the next Parliament and the dynamics likely to shape government formation and the energy sector.

Security

Kurdistan refinery protests spark deadly violence

At least one person is dead and several injured after security forces cracked down on unemployed truck drivers demanding work at the Lanaz refinery near Erbil.

Interviews

Q&A: Khalid al-Battania, managing director of Basra Gas Company

The head of Iraq's signature gas processing project discusses efforts to secure the supplies needed to exploit BGC's expanded capacity.