Politics

Analysis: As cash flows from Baghdad, political risks deepen for Kurdistan and its oil sector

A new era of financial integration with Baghdad has provided the KRG with badly needed budget support while also exposing new levels of political vulnerability.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani (right) hosts Massoud Barzani, the president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party, in Baghdad on July 3, 2024. (Photo credit: Prime Minister's Office)

Oct 22, 2024

Abdulghani returns to ministry, but leadership questions linger

The oil minister is back at his desk after a health scare, but his multi-week absence surfaced unresolved political rivalries that could shake up oil sector leadership.

Oct 2, 2024

Baghdad-Erbil progress fuels hope for counter-insurgency fight

The formation of two joint brigades highlights improving cooperation that could help combat IS militants and close security gaps.

Sep 12, 2024

Election of new governor marks shift in Diyala power structures

Changing political and security dynamics have the potential to complicate burgeoning oil and gas development in the province.

Jul 8, 2024

Analysis: Sudani agenda faces rising political risks as elections approach

Some members of the prime minister’s governing coalition appear to see Sudani’s popularity — and continuing success — as a growing political liability.

Jun 25, 2024

New life for Iraq-Jordan export pipeline

The long-stalled project is taking tentative steps forward with a $5 billion federal budget financing provision and a recent equipment tender.

May 31, 2024

New date proposed for Kurdistan’s long-delayed elections

After boycott threats, legal battles, and backroom deals in Baghdad, Iraq's election authority is proposing a September vote in Kurdistan.

Apr 1, 2024

Pipeline repairs raise prospect of alternate Turkey export route

The Iraqi side of the Iraq-Turkey Pipeline is being rehabilitated, potentially transforming the political dynamics around oil exports via Turkey.

Mar 22, 2024

Iraq activates new deal to pay Iran for gas

Swap of Iraqi refined products for Iranian gas could help settle an $11 billion debt but also risks friction with U.S. over sanctions.

Mar 15, 2024

Deadlock persists over three provincial governors

Leadership vacuums in Kirkuk, Salahaddin, and Diyala provinces highlight the challenges of identity-based politics to effective governance.

Feb 22, 2024

Iran eludes accountability after strikes on Iraqi Kurdistan

After condemning violations of sovereignty, Baghdad and Erbil have not published investigative findings or taken action to deter further attacks by Iran and its proxy forces.

Jan 16, 2024

Progress on Kurdistan budget deal, but obstacles remain

Baghdad approves temporary funding deal but unresolved oil issues hang over a potential budget law amendment to unlock more reliable financial transfers.