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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)

Q&A: Security Snapshot

Michael Knights of security firm Olive Groups explains the security trends in Iraq, with an eye on the energy sector.

Iraqi forces step up oil protection

Recent attacks highlight decreasing vulnerability of oil and gas infrastructure and increasing ability of Iraq’s security forces to respond.

Prevention, attacks target oil

Basra refinery targeted days after Jihadist website promotes oil sector attacks, while government crackdown causes delays at gas stations.

Oil insecurity

Iraqi officials worry oil export terminals are vulnerable with British Navy gone, but Americans assure vital export routes are safe for now.

Iraqi gay community a target

Rights advocate speaks of an "extraordinarily brutal campaign", saying hundreds may have been killed in last few months in a new wave of violence against the gay population.

Interview: Muwafaq al-Rubaie

Iraq's National Security Adviser talks about the relationship with Iran and the ongoing tension between Baghdad and Iraq's Kurds.