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)

Aug 15, 2011

Violence shakes Iraq during Ramadan lull

Halfway through a relatively calm Ramadan, security is shattered by seemingly coordinated attacks nationwide.

Jul 7, 2011

Oil Police doubles down on security

After being temporarily removed from leading Beiji refinery security, the Oil Police is revamping its strategy and increasing its presence.

Jun 28, 2011

Beiji online after quick fix

Investigators still don't know what caused last week's explosion, but damaged gas line no longer impacting output.

Jun 24, 2011

Beiji targeted again

Iraq’s largest refinery is off line after an explosion on a gas pipeline that feeds the refinery, as the oil sector continues to suffer an epidemic of attacks.

Jun 22, 2011

UPDATE: Iranian oil delegation attacked in Baghdad

An Iranian oil ministry delegation en route to meetings in Baghdad was fired on, injuring two Iraqis, before signing a deal to import Iranian fuel for electricity generation.

Jun 21, 2011

UPDATE: Attacks continue on south oil sector

Roadside assault targets western contractor providing oil sector security, the latest in an uptick of violence.

Jun 17, 2011

Bombs in Daura refinery intensify security scare

Four bombs found in Baghdad's main refinery could have caused massive damage, the third inside job on Iraq's oil sector in four months.

Jun 6, 2011

Output stable after suspected inside job attack

An investigation is ongoing into a bombing of a tank farm in Basra, but production and exports are steady after a brief slowdown.

Jun 6, 2011

Southern oil attacked

Details unclear as rare attack on Iraq's southern oil infrastructure coincides with visit by Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs.

May 25, 2011

Sadrist surge aims to hasten U.S. withdrawal

In a show of force, the radical cleric Moqtada al-Sadr is organizing mass protests and denouncing a potential U.S. troop extension, amidst increased violence.