Security

As Iraq tries to rein in paramilitary groups, oil sector threats remain

Several armed groups say they will put their weapons under state control, but the most aggressive Iran-backed fighters remain outside the process.

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi (center front) attends a ceremony on June 14, 2026, to mark the 12th anniversary of the creation of the Popular Mobilization Forces. (Photo credit: Prime Minister's Office)

Feb 11, 2019

Q&A: Jabar Yawar, secretary general of the KRG Ministry of Peshmerga

Baghdad and KRG leaders are pursuing renewed security cooperation to defuse tensions in disputed territories and combat a persistent insurgency.

Jan 31, 2019

Kirkuk oil smuggling rings thrive amidst corruption

Security forces have disrupted several operations stealing thousands of barrels of oil per day, but perpetrators with powerful connections defy justice and the smuggling continues.

Dec 7, 2018

Homemade bombs, shootings at southern Iraq oil fields

Local disputes following field protests raise tension in Iraq's key oil provinces.

Nov 15, 2018

Islamic State incursions highlight Iraq’s counter-insurgency challenges

As border forces scramble to stop IS fighters coming from Syria, a Pentagon assessment warns of systemic Iraqi military shortcomings - and the need for a long-term U.S. presence.

Sep 28, 2018

Villages evacuate as rising insurgency targets new territory

Outside of northern Iraq’s fortified urban centers, insurgents have prevented resettlement in rural areas and are now causing residents to flee from villages previously considered safe.

Sep 10, 2018

Baiji refinery begins its comeback

Despite ongoing violence, including a weekend pipeline bombing, the Baiji refinery's resumption of operations marks progress in Iraq's northern oil sector.

Sep 6, 2018

Basra protests explode into widespread violence

As rioters burned government and political party offices, protesters threatened action against oil facilities.

Sep 5, 2018

Violent protests reignite in Iraq’s oil capital

The recent killing of a protester fueled renewed anti-government demonstrations in Basra city and around several oil fields, some of which turned deadly.

Aug 8, 2018

Insurgency continues targeting energy infrastructure

IS militants are exploiting major security gaps in northern Iraq to blow up electricity towers and target security forces.

Aug 2, 2018

Q&A: Brig. Gen. Ali Hussein Hilal al-Mayahi, director of South Oil Police

As protests re-gain momentum at key oil sites in Basra, Mayahi details the network of government forces providing security and the challenges they face.