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)

Jul 18, 2012

Iraq warns Turkey as oil tension escalates

Baghdad leaders are accusing Turkey of abetting an illegal fuel trade with Kurdistan, with potentially dire implications for future relations and investment.

Jul 12, 2012

Cabinet targets Kurdistan budget

Alleging that the KRG's oil export cutoff has made an $8.5 billion dent in the Iraqi budget, the Cabinet is calling for penalties.

Jun 22, 2012

Kurdistan challenges Baghdad export powers

In a bid to expand its oil powers, the KRG is aiming to debunk SOMO's status as the exclusive exporter of Iraqi crude.

Jun 15, 2012

Q&A: Hussain al-Shahristani

The deputy prime minister for energy discusses energy relations with Turkey and Iran, the deadlock with the KRG, and the reasons that IOCs shied away from the fourth bidding round.

Jun 14, 2012

Kurdistan, Exxon gain key ally in Mosul

The governor of Ninewa province, once an opponent of Exxon's KRG contracts, now says joint oil development could help ease tensions in disputed territories.

May 29, 2012

Central control enshrined in 4th bid round contract

The fate of ExxonMobil's West Qurna deal may still be undecided, but no companies who sign contracts in the May 30-31 auction will be allowed to deal with local authorities.

May 10, 2012

Exxon keeps its head down as it works Iraq

The fate of the company is apparent, despite the controversy, as it carries on with its seven deals in Iraq.

May 10, 2012

KRG claims right to independent crude exports

As the divisions between Baghdad and Kurdistan widen, Ashti Hawrami says Kurdistan has the right to sell its oil abroad.

May 8, 2012

Q&A: Ashti Hawrami Part 2

The head of KRG oil policy details his interpretation of the Constitution and how it applies to his oil deals, the oil deals of Baghdad, and the delayed oil law.

May 4, 2012

Behind the Kurdistan export dispute

After the end of Kurdistan's exports, the public debate has lacked solid information about the flawed export deal and the negotiations that produced it. Iraq Oil Report publishes key documents, analysis and interviews that explain it all.