Politics

Analysis: Worsening internal rivalries weaken KRG at key political juncture

Conflict between the KDP and PUK has driven dysfunction in Erbil and weakened Kurdish influence in Baghdad as a new government takes power.

Bafel Talabani, president of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (left), meets with newly elected Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi (right), in Baghdad in May 2026. (Photo credit: Prime Minister's Office)

Apr 4, 2019

Q&A: Zardasht Shangali, commander of the YBS (Sinjar Resistance Units)

After deadly clashes with the Iraqi Army, the YBS leader discusses improved security coordination, a strategically important Syrian border crossing, and the future of Sinjar.

Apr 4, 2019

Prime ministers refrain from endorsing oil lawsuit

The top leaders in Baghdad and Erbil declined to sign legal arguments as requested by Iraq's highest court, signaling tepid interest in continuing a landmark court battle.

Apr 3, 2019

Iraqi Cabinet decisions: Apr. 2, 2019

Whenever the media office of the Council of Ministers releases decisions of the Cabinet, Iraq Oil Report publishes a translation from the original Arabic.

Mar 21, 2019

Iraqi Cabinet decisions: Mar. 19, 2019

Whenever the media office of the Council of Ministers releases decisions of the Cabinet, Iraq Oil Report publishes a translation from the original Arabic.

Mar 20, 2019

Iraqi Cabinet decisions: Mar. 12, 2019

Whenever the media office of the Council of Ministers releases decisions of the Cabinet, Iraq Oil Report publishes a translation from the original Arabic.

Mar 19, 2019

U.S. grants Iraq another Iran sanctions waiver

Another 90-day waiver allows for critical power purchases as Iraq tries to balance relations between rival powers.

Mar 19, 2019

Q&A: Haider al-Abadi, former prime minister of Iraq

Five months after leaving office, Abadi reflects on Iraq's political landscape and his successor's handling of energy sector priorities.

Mar 14, 2019

Baghdad hikes monthly payment to Kurdistan

With an infusion of federal money under the newly enacted 2019 budget, the KRG is lifting austerity measures and returning to the days of financial dependence on Baghdad.

Mar 13, 2019

Iraq and China to sign massive financing deal

Imminent agreement will provide some $10 billion in credit for companies to invest, super-charging China's involvement in the Iraqi economy.

Mar 6, 2019

Iraqi Cabinet decisions: Mar. 5, 2019

Whenever the media office of the Council of Ministers releases decisions of the Cabinet, Iraq Oil Report publishes a translation from the original Arabic.