Politics

Baghdad reaffirms conditions for KRG budget support

Iraq's Cabinet said Tuesday that further payments are contingent on the KRG transferring most of its oil production and non-oil revenue to Baghdad.

Negotiators representing Iraq's federal government and Kurdistan Regional Government meet on Aug. 19, 2025 in a session chaired by Minister of Planning Mohammed Ali Tamim. (Photo credit: Ministry of Planning)

Apr 1, 2021

Sarqala field shuts down as political rivalries spill into the open

Kurdistan could be deprived of $1.5 million per day worth of oil production due to a dispute between trucking companies associated with competing factions of the PUK party.

Mar 31, 2021

Iraq revives efforts to revamp oil sector legislation

Hydrocarbons and national oil company laws get renewed push after more than a decade of political deadlock.

Mar 30, 2021

U.S. gives Iraq maximum timeframe in sanctions waiver extension

Biden administration grants Iraq another 120 days to purchase gas and power from Iran as it continues to build out alternative supplies for vital energy needs.

Mar 19, 2021

Q&A: Ninewa Gov. Najim al-Jibouri

The military commander-turned-governor says Mosul has largely succeeded in re-establishing security — but lagging support from Baghdad is hurting the local economy, including energy investment.

Mar 16, 2021

Q&A: PUK Co-President Lahur Talabany

The co-leader of Kurdistan's second-largest party discusses politicized oil policies, factionalized leadership, security risks, and Iraq's national budget.

Feb 24, 2021

Q&A: Dr. Reyadh Abdul Amir, head of Iraq’s coronavirus vaccine program

The Health Ministry's vaccine chief discusses efforts to obtain and administer doses, as well as the potential for a future "vaccine passport" policy.

Feb 23, 2021

Iraq’s vaccine program races against worsening pandemic

First shipments of three different vaccines are expected imminently, but limited supply and rising infection rates mean other new pandemic counter-measures are also needed.

Feb 5, 2021

Q&A: Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ali Allawi

Iraq's top economic and energy leader discusses OPEC policy, forward oil sales, gas projects, economic reforms, and more.

Jan 29, 2021

In pursuit of reforms, Kurdistan drafts regional budget

For the first time in seven years, the KRG is preparing its own regional budget law — a process that is highlighting the stakes of ongoing negotiations with Baghdad.

Jan 28, 2021

Iraqi Oil Minister takes hardline stance as Turkey arbitration decision looms

If successful, Baghdad could potentially win tens of billions of dollars in damages and undermine Kurdistan’s ability to export oil independently via Turkey.