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)

Feb 24, 2011

IOCs calm amidst Iraqi protests

Protests throughout Iraq over past three weeks have resulted in deaths, clashes and buildings aflame, but foreign oil companies aren't curtailing operations.

Feb 17, 2011

Pipeline bombed as protests escalate

A pipeline that feeds Baghdad’s Daura refinery was attacked, on the second day of violent demonstrations.

Jan 28, 2011

No country for oil smugglers

Iraq's Oil Police have seized the momentum in the country’s battle against outlaw smugglers, and Iraq Oil Report is along for the ride. With production set to skyrocket, their challenge has just begun.

Nov 22, 2010

British Navy trainers remain at oil terminals

Iraqi cabinet bypasses Parliament, grants British forces last-minute extension to keep training Iraqi Navy guarding oil exports.

Nov 19, 2010

UK Navy likely gone

On Nov. 22 the British navy will stop training the Iraqi forces that guard 80 percent of oil exports. Their re-authorization is stuck in Iraq’s political quagmire.

Sep 2, 2010

Oil capital Basra scrambles for security

A week after Basra and a dozen other cities were struck by coordinated bombings and shootings, life stalls.

Aug 24, 2010

Iraq readies for AQI strike on oil sector

Iraqi Oil Police initiate measures to combat possible attack, especially along the northern export pipeline.

Aug 11, 2010

Iraqi forces pursued robbers of cargo ships in Gulf

Details emerge as officials confirm that four ships were looted, but assert that ports are secure.

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.