Security

Iraqi oil shutdowns loom as U.S. attacks Iran

Some production is already offline and Iraqi oil officials are bracing for a total loss of southern exports.

A worker from Iraq's state-run Oil Pipelines Company repairs part of a pipeline in Babel province carrying oil products from the Shuaiba refinery in Basra, in February 2026. (Photo credit: Oil Pipelines Company)

Aug 10, 2010

Pirates rob American ship in U.S.-guarded Iraqi waters

At least two commercial vessels were robbed by pirates in Iraqi waters near the country’s main cargo port and two oil terminals, highlighting the security vulnerabilities of Iraq’s ports.

Jul 13, 2010

Major oil export development highlights security questions

Iraq awards Foster Wheeler contract to oversee massive southern oil export expansion, as top U.S. military official says foreign forces may be needed to protect oil exports after 2011.

Jul 7, 2010

Increasing violence hits Iraq’s oil sector

In a summer of discontent, Iraq’s oil sector is a popular target for outlaws of all stripes – from insurgents, to organized smugglers, to petty criminals and vandals.

Jul 6, 2010

Kurdish rebels step up hostilities with Turkey pipeline attack

Kurdish independence group claims an attack in Turkish territory on the Iraq-Turkey pipeline is response to unresolved and escalating tension.

Jun 10, 2010

UPDATE: Northern pipeline hard hit by bomb attack and smugglers

Despite ongoing efforts to improve security, Iraq's northern oil export pipeline still suffers from attacks and well organized smuggling operations.

Jun 2, 2010

Tribal demands, alleged extortion stall oil development

International and Iraqi state companies say tribes in Dhi Qar province are making demands and threats that amount to extortion.

May 17, 2010

Weapons find near oil field worries jumpy south

Initial report that weapons were found on a key oil field spread concerns of threats to massive planned investment, though industry official says it is used to operating in tough places.

May 4, 2010

Better ‘intel’ leads police to smuggling source

No arrests have been made but police say increased intelligence and technical monitoring helped plug a smuggling hole in a vital pipeline.

Apr 26, 2010

North oil exports resume amid uncertainty

It took only four days for the oil ministry to repair the bombed pipeline near Mosul. While the number of energy-sector attacks has dropped in recent months, technicians could be busy if violence escalates as it threatens to.

Mar 31, 2010

U.S. worries Oil Police behind on Iraqi security build up

Iraq's Oil Police require more money, equipment and members as U.S. forces, now in training mode, prepare for end-'11 departure. Oil Police official acknowledges gap but pledges to do best with what he's given.