Security

Basra tanker attack marks deepening crisis for Iraq oil sector

Iraq is facing a widening array of security threats and economic consequences from the Iran war.

Iraqi ports director Farhan al-Fartousi (right) conducts an inspection on March 12, 2026, of the site of an Iranian attack on oil tankers the previous night. (Photo credit: General Company for Ports of Iraq)

Feb 21, 2013

North Iraq pipeline bombings continue

For the second time in less than a week, saboteurs bombed a pipeline supplying refined fuel to Ninewa province from the Baiji refinery.

Jan 24, 2013

In disputed territories, a thin line between politics and violence

With their armies still locked in a standoff, the KRG and Baghdad are fighting political battles – over territory, power, and oil – that risk escalating into armed conflict.

Jan 15, 2013

Oil worker kidnapping highlights Al-Qaida’s power

An oil worker in Anbar province was held hostage for weeks in an al-Qaida stronghold where security forces were afraid to venture. He was released for a $50,000 ransom.

Dec 20, 2012

Finance Ministry targeted in security force roundup

Sudden arrest warrants, "aggressive" troop presence in Green Zone centers on security team of Finance Minister Rafa al-Issawi.

Dec 12, 2012

Disputed oil drilling could provoke war

Top political and military officials in Baghdad are warning that the Iraqi Army will risk civil war to stop ExxonMobil and any other company from drilling in disputed territories.

Nov 30, 2012

Protestors storm Garraf oil field after religious dispute

Angered by alleged offenses against their religious practices, protesters attacked the Petronas headquarters, injuring employees and damaging offices and equipment.

Nov 28, 2012

Disputed territories crisis easing

The Iraqi Army and Kurdish forces have agreed to end a huge military escalation in Iraq's disputed territories despite recent bombings apparently aimed at destabilizing the area.

Nov 21, 2012

Q&A: Peshmerga General Secretary Jabar Yawar Manda

As Kurdish and federal security forces square off in the disputed areas of Salahaddin province, the Peshmerga Ministry's general secretary paints a dire picture.

Sep 27, 2012

Maliki security consolidation prompts Kurdish outcry

The prime minister is increasing his direct control over security forces in Iraq's most sensitive disputed areas – straining tensions and gaining key leverage over Kurdistan.

Sep 18, 2012

As Syria erupts, Iraqi networks expand arms trafficking

Local governments are fighting an uphill battle against a burgeoning black-market weapons trade, amidst fears that Syrian violence is stoking sectarian conflict in Iraq.