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Politics

Political disunity clouds KRG fiscal and energy outlooks

Deadlocked talks over forming a new regional Cabinet highlight a bitter rivalry between two ruling parties that poses risks to Kurdistan's economy and energy sector.
PUK President Bafel Talabni (left) meets with KDP President Massoud Barzani (right) on Sept. 27, 2025. (Photo credit: KDP presidency office)

Parliament oil committee named

The new Parliament has approved members to the energy committee, which could shepherd major legislation including the stalled oil law.

The year ahead

From oil policy to politics to security, the events of a momentous 2010 have shaped the agenda for 2011. A briefing for the new year from Iraq Bureau Chief Ben Lando.

Return of the kingmaker

After four years of self-imposed exile in Iran, radical Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr returns to an Iraqi political scene where his clout has never been greater.

Luaibi’s time to lead

Abdul Karim Luaibi began his career as a deputy engineer for the South Oil Company, and now takes the helm of the Oil Ministry.

Maliki starts second term

New Iraqi government faces immediate challenge to keep coalition together, move forward with oil production boost and end oil-related disputes.

Iraq’s next government

The complete list of Iraq's next government -- so far -- as approved by Parliament on Tuesday, Dec. 21.

UPDATE: Kurdish oil demands to Maliki revealed

According to previously undisclosed communiqué, Kurdish leaders want specific oil and revenue laws passed in 2011 and say KRG should decide constitutionality of its oil deals.

Erbil, Baghdad still at odds over oil

Iraq’s political and fiscal realities appear to be pushing Baghdad closer to its oil rivals in Kurdistan, though the two sides remain wedged apart by both bitterness and key policy differences.