Energy

Iraqi oil sector weathers Iran conflict

Production and exports have not suffered major interruptions so far, but exodus of foreign oil workers and border closures highlight risks of disruption.

Iraqi Oil Minister Hayyan Abdulghani (center left, red tie) visits the Rumaila oil field on March 2, 2025. (Photo credit: Oil Ministry)

Nov 15, 2019

Protests put Baghdad-Erbil oil and budget talks on ice

As anti-government demonstrations alter Iraq's political landscape, the KRG has been forced to temper its ambitions to negotiate a durable financial relationship with Baghdad.

Nov 14, 2019

Qayarah field resumes production as protest disruptions ebb

The Mosul-area field has resumed shipments as demonstrations appear to be receding – at least temporarily – from key infrastructure.

Nov 13, 2019

Ghadhban reshuffles and streamlines Oil Ministry

The oil minister has officially confirmed his deputies, transferred or retired key officials, and put HFO sales under SOMO's purview.

Nov 6, 2019

Protests force first oil field shut-in

The stoppage at small Qayarah field could foreshadow larger impact of anti-government protests on oil sector.

Nov 5, 2019

Iraqi crude exports decline for second straight month

Oil sales by the federal government continue to drop, while exports from the Kurdistan region remain steady.

Oct 31, 2019

Rising tide of Iraqi protest movement reaches oil sector

Oil workers are organizing to show solidarity with protesters, and demonstrations are targeting key oil sites directly – increasing pressure on an already faltering government.

Oct 30, 2019

Oil Ministry appoints new acting Basra oil chief

As the new acting head of the Basra Oil Company, Bassim Abdulkarim will oversee the majority of Iraq's oil production, cementing the ouster of Ihsan Ismaael.

Oct 23, 2019

Production falls as Iraq moves toward OPEC compliance

After hitting record levels in August and early September, the Oil Ministry has reduced output to help support global prices.

Oct 22, 2019

Export infrastructure outage underscores Iraq’s need for diversified outlets

One of Iraq's single-point mooring export buoys is being replaced, temporarily reducing the backup options for Iraq’s economic lifeblood.

Oct 16, 2019

Ismaael removed as head of Basra Oil Company

One of Iraq's top oil leaders has been dismissed, as the Cabinet enacts orders to replace dozens of directors general.