Analysis: Iraqi elections approach, with high stakes for energy sector

Political insiders weigh in on potential election outcomes and their implications for the country’s investment climate.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani (center) and Oil Minister Hayyan Abdulghani (right) attend a ceremony to mark the opening of a 50 MW power plant at the Baiji refinery on Aug. 2, 2025. (Photo credit: Oil Ministry media office)

Energy

Iraq preps for northern exports after clinching tripartite oil deal

Test flows are expected to begin Saturday as Baghdad, Erbil, and IOCs reach agreement on cooperative pipeline exports via Turkey.

Politics

Deadly political divisions raise risks for Kurdistan

Rivalries between political leaders in Sulaimaniya have exploded into violence and undermined relations between Iraqi Kurdistan’s two ruling parties at a key political moment.

Security

Kurdistan oil sector under attack

Drones struck Tawke and Ain Sifni on Wednesday, marking three consecutive days of attacks on Kurdistan oil fields.

Interviews

Q&A: Ali Shaddad al-Faris, MP and spokesperson for the Parliament Oil and Gas Committee

Longtime energy MP talks about U.S. pressure on Baghdad and Erbil, the blame he places on KRG oil tactics, and the upside of the sitting oil minister entering elections.