Politics

Government formation stalemate deepens

Nouri al-Maliki's path to the premiership becomes increasingly unlikely as political power brokers struggle to contend with U.S. opposition and regional uncertainty.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani (left) and former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki (right) meet on Feb. 11, 2026 in Baghdad. (Photo credit: Prime Minister's Office)

Jan 6, 2010

BREAKING: Four Iraqi oil director generals retired

Iraq Oil Report has learned that at least four of Iraq's oil technocrat elite have been retired, though it appears to be based purely on age, not controversy as originally believed.

Jan 4, 2010

UPDATE: North Oil Co. leader replacement by deputy draws criticism

Workers say the popular Manna al-Obeidi should be replaced by someone born in Kirkuk, though the ministry claims his deputy is the right man for the job. Both are beyond the mandatory retirement age.

Jan 4, 2010

Civil society’s discontent with Iraq’s oil transparency efforts

Iraqi NGOs will have to be an active member of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative for it to be successful, but worry they won't get a meaningul seat at the table.

Dec 17, 2009

In the theatre of oil, the politics of Iraq

The grand oil auction Dec. 11 and 12 required a breakout performance for Iraqi Oil Minister Hussain al-Shahristani in time for the national elections.

Dec 15, 2009

New Iraqi oil deals challenged in court

Dec. 22 hearing the first legal challenge to oil contracts concluded this year with foreign oil companies, including seven awarded Friday and Saturday.

Dec 14, 2009

Political implications of the second oil auction

The net outcome of the licensing rounds is likely to be more of an asset than a liability for Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.

Dec 9, 2009

Official electoral coalitions list released

Iraq's electoral commission releases the official listing of coalitions standing in the March 7 national election, which will be a tense vote and contentious attempt to form the next government.

Dec 8, 2009

Election delayed until March 7

After tough election law bout in Parliament and a second veto by VP Hashimi averted at the 11th hour, Iraqi voters will have their say in March, only two months late.

Dec 8, 2009

Not done yet

Iraqi government spokesman talks about dispute with the Kurds, Kuwait and the post-election legitimacy of the oil deals signed with foreign companies.

Dec 3, 2009

Remains of the dictator

Iraq Oil Report talks to members of Saddam Hussein’s tribe – some accused of recent violence – about the role of foreign oil companies and investment.