Subscribe 

Politics

Iraq grapples with power shortages and Iran sanctions as summer looms

The expiration of a U.S. sanctions waiver on Iranian electricity imports is complicating Baghdad's balancing act between Tehran and Washington, while the government scrambles for power supply ahead of peak demand season.
Workers from the Southern Projects Commission of Iraq's State Company for Oil Projects assemble a pipeline designed to carry regassified LNG imported via the Khor al-Zubair port in Basra to power stations in February 2025. (ALI AL-AQILY/Iraq Oil Report)
Mar 17, 2011

Maliki’s office stalling oil company visas

Oil companies say they've been waiting more than a month for visas, threatening critical projects, and the visa purgatory appears to be the prime minister's office.

Feb 21, 2011

Political worries realign budget

Iraq’s political leaders have passed a budget that prioritizes social spending and cuts operational and other expenses, after an escalation in pressure from protesters.

Feb 16, 2011

KRG financial blackout

The top auditor in the Iraqi government says he's not being allowed access to the KRG's oil and fuel receipts, in possible violation of UN resolutions on Iraq.

Feb 14, 2011

Electricity key to keeping power

As protests continue in Iraq, PM Maliki has backed a quick fix to summer power problems, in order to avert blackouts and revolt.

Feb 14, 2011

Regional upheaval fuels oil protests

Northern oil workers raised the specter of strikes, as old grievances find fresh expression in Iraqi protests inspired by Egypt and Tunisia.