Swap of Iraqi refined products for Iranian gas could help settle an $11 billion debt but also risks friction with U.S. over sanctions.
Leadership vacuums in Kirkuk, Salahaddin, and Diyala provinces highlight the challenges of identity-based politics to effective governance.
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.
Baghdad approves temporary funding deal but unresolved oil issues hang over a potential budget law amendment to unlock more reliable financial transfers.
Sparked by the Gaza war, increased strikes on American targets highlight the weakness of an Iraqi government pinned between opposing political and military forces.
High-level meetings involving Baghdad and Erbil leaders and oil company representatives aim for deals needed to restart northern pipeline exports.
The consortium operating Kurdistan's most prolific gas field is negotiating a potentially paradigm-shifting deal to sell directly to Baghdad.
Iraqi Army and Peshmerga forces clashed over a strategically important position near key energy assets.
Political obstacles within Iraq are still preventing crude exports from restarting after a formal letter from BOTAS to SOMO confirmed the pipeline is ready.
Northern exports can only come online if Baghdad strikes new political and commercial agreements.
