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)

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.

Feb 23, 2010

Ministries, oil companies clear fields of mines

Most of Iraq's border oil fields contain landmines left from previous wars, but must be removed to boost production.

Feb 18, 2010

The biggest job

Iraq's young navy and marines and their American and British counterparts are in a race against time to ensure the safety of the country's most important piece of infrastructure, the al-Basra Oil Terminal.

Feb 6, 2010

Civilian feared kidnapped in Baghdad

A civilian contractor has disappeared in Baghdad and now appears to feature in a militant group's video, raising fears that kidnap tactics may return to Iraq

Feb 2, 2010

Kurd-Arab patrols rattle Kirkuk

Kurd, Arab and US soldiers are patrolling areas around the disputed, oil-rich city of Kirkuk, to the alarm of locals.

Feb 1, 2010

Iraqi security marked by Arbayin violence

Religious pilgrims are targeted in suicide attack that poses challenges to pre-election security and threatens to reverse recent security gains.