Energy

Iran reversal on Strait of Hormuz threatens Iraq’s nascent export restart

Iranian forces blocked a tanker carrying Iraqi crude, dampening hopes for a durable resumption of Iraq's southern exports.

The Agios Fanourios I tanker prepares to dock at a single point mooring buoy in the Basra Gulf in April 2026 for the first loading of crude from Iraq's southern export outlets in more than a month. (Photo credit: Ministry of Transportation)

Feb 14, 2022

Karbala refinery nears completion

After years of financing challenges and delays, the Karbala refinery is almost ready to start producing high-quality fuel to feed rising domestic demand.

Feb 12, 2022

KRG imposes major new pipeline fees on companies

Increased tariffs are set to cost oil-producing companies millions of dollars per month — the latest headwind for Kurdistan's oil sector investors.

Feb 9, 2022

Q&A: Hatim Abdul-Imam Khudair, director for West Qurna 2

A 200-well driling plan aims to double production at one of Basra's largest fields — including high-value light crude from a relatively untapped reservoir.

Feb 3, 2022

January oil revenues soar to decade high despite dip in exports

Independent oil exports from Iraqi Kurdistan increased slightly, but oil prices helped Iraq overcome federal export slump.

Feb 3, 2022

KRG extends gas pipeline network, raising potential for exports

A new 52-inch pipeline to Dohuk, near the Turkish border, will bring feedstock to a dormant power plant — with extra capacity for more destinations in the future, including potential exports.

Jan 27, 2022

Power crisis worsens with domestic gas supply disruptions

Severe electricity shortages come at a politically sensitive time, highlighting the chronic weakness of Iraq's energy infrastructure and its over-reliance on Iranian imports.

Jan 25, 2022

KRG resumes Syria crude trade

After more than a month, the border has reopened for both trade and humanitarian traffic, alleviating economic pressure on a U.S. ally in the counter-IS fight.

Jan 21, 2022

Iraq finalizes Mansuriya contract for next government

Sinopec has agreed to commercial terms for developing the Diyala province gas field, but Iraq's current caretaker government is not signing a binding contract.

Jan 20, 2022

Northern exports resume after Turkey pipeline explosion

The temporary outage had no apparent impact on oil field operations or export volumes, but the cause of the incident is a matter of uncertainty and potential concern.

Jan 19, 2022

Oil worker shot in attempted highway robbery

Despite the presence of a security protection team, an armed gang attacked a convoy carrying international oil workers to the Basra airport.