Security

Akkas gas field falters despite increasing power needs

Even as wartime supply disruptions push Iraq toward a summertime electricity crisis, the Akkas gas field is producing at a fraction of its potential.

Representatives of the Iraqi Oil Ministry and the U.S. company SLB gather in Baghdad on July 22, 2025, for the signing of a contract for the development of the Akkas gas field. (Photo credit: Oil Ministry)

Dec 29, 2019

Nassiriya oil field shut in as protests block staff access

Oil Ministry takes an 82,000 bpd field offline as de-escalation tactic in response to protests; overall production and exports unlikely to be affected nationwide.

Dec 25, 2019

Islamic State suspected of oil field attack Tuesday near Kirkuk

The killing of an oil facilities policeman at a Khabbaz well comes as insurgent attacks are on the upswing.

Dec 6, 2019

IS steps up nighttime assaults near Diyala oil fields

Thousands of Islamic State militants are believed to be in the area, exploiting security gaps.

Nov 17, 2019

As protesters call for general strike, oil disruptions loom

Protesters are confronting an unbridgeable gap between their demands and the government's action. Their rising frustration poses increasing risks to the oil sector.

Nov 14, 2019

Qayarah field resumes production as protest disruptions ebb

The Mosul-area field has resumed shipments as demonstrations appear to be receding – at least temporarily – from key infrastructure.

Nov 6, 2019

Protests force first oil field shut-in

The stoppage at small Qayarah field could foreshadow larger impact of anti-government protests on oil sector.

Oct 31, 2019

Rising tide of Iraqi protest movement reaches oil sector

Oil workers are organizing to show solidarity with protesters, and demonstrations are targeting key oil sites directly – increasing pressure on an already faltering government.

Oct 26, 2019

Renewed protests challenge Iraqi government as death toll rises

Dozens dead and thousands injured as protesters and security forces clash around southern Iraq.

Oct 25, 2019

Attack on Alas oil field highlights ongoing insurgent threat

Deadly operation targets the defenses of an oil field once controlled by the Islamic State militant group, reinforcing fears of an energized insurgency.

Oct 20, 2019

As protesters regroup, government faces pivotal test

Widespread demonstrations are expected to resume this week, posing a challenge to a government whose recent crackdowns have undermined its standing with citizens and religious authorities.