Interviews

Pre-election Q&A series: Sheikh Burhan Nasser al-Nimrawi, MP from the Taqadum Party

Ahead of a consequential election for Iraq’s energy sector, key political figures give their outlook on the upcoming vote and government-formation process.

Sheikh Burhan Nasser Al-Nimrawi, an MP from the Taqadum Party, led by former Parliament Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi. (Photo courtesy of Burhan Nasser al-Nimrawi)

Aug 19, 2021

Q&A: Jabar Yawar, Secretary General of the Peshmerga

Developments in Afghanistan have cast a shadow over the U.S. role in supporting anti-ISIS forces in Iraq, but the longstanding Peshmerga commander says there's no sign of an American pull out.

Aug 11, 2021

Q&A: Kurdistan Region VP Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa

The former Peshmerga leader and PUK politburo member reflects on the priorities and crises facing the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Jul 30, 2021

Q&A: Oil Minister Ihsan Ismaael

Iraq’s oil chief discusses negotiations with Total and Chevron, arbitration with Exxon, the future of INOC, several gas project updates, and budget talks with the Kurdistan region.

Jul 1, 2021

Q&A: Hamza Abdul-Baqi Nassir, director general of the South Gas Company

Iraq is continuing to negotiate with Total over the Ratawi gas hub as export cuts from Iran and nationwide electricity failures highlight the need for new domestic energy supply.

Jun 15, 2021

Q&A: Habat al-Halbusi, chair of the Parliament Oil and Energy Committee

The MP leading Parliament's oversight of Iraq's oil and electricity sectors discusses the importance of gas development and the status of INOC legislation.

May 11, 2021

Q&A: Dhi Qar Gov. Ahmed al-Khafaji

Weeks after taking office, Dhi Qar's new governor discusses aspirations for quelling oil protests, raising employment, and attracting investment.

May 6, 2021

Q&A: Sheikh Kadhim Majeed al-Sarayefi

A Basra tribal leader discusses his business relationship with international oil companies, the need for private-sector development, and the problem of tribal violence.

Apr 26, 2021

Q&A: Dhia Shaker al-Luaibi, director of Majnoon oil field

Basra Oil Company's field manager at Majnoon talks foreign interest and Iraqi success in developing the field once operated by Shell.

Apr 22, 2021

Q&A: Khalid Hamza Abbas, Basra Oil Company director general

The chief of Basra's oil sector discusses Exxon's impending departure from West Qurna 1, Total's bid for a massive new deal, and Iraq's efforts to develop new capacity from state-run fields.

Apr 7, 2021

Q&A: Bassem Abdul Karim Nassir, head of the Iraqi Drilling Company

The director general of Iraq's state-run drilling company discusses plans to help the country boost production in an era of higher oil prices and loosening OPEC constraints.