Security

Deadly political divisions raise risks for Kurdistan

Rivalries between political leaders in Sulaimaniya have exploded into violence and undermined relations between Iraqi Kurdistan’s two ruling parties at a key political moment.

Bafel Talabani (left) and Lahur Talabany (right) at a Patriotic Union of Kurdistan party gathering on June 15, 2021. (Source: PUK Media)

Mar 16, 2022

Iranian missiles destroy house of prominent Kurdish oil businessman

The IRGC says it was targeting Israeli interests in Erbil, but the main victim of the 12-missile barrage appears to have been the private residence of the CEO of KAR Group, who has no known ties to Israel.

Feb 26, 2022

Protests shut down Nassiriya field

The 60k bpd field is the second in two days to stop production amid global supply concerns as Russian war in Ukraine continues.

Feb 23, 2022

Dhi Qar unrest raises oil sector risks

Protesters are threatening to shut down the Nassiriya field, and deadly violence has caused one American company to suspend oil operations in the province.

Jan 25, 2022

KRG resumes Syria crude trade

After more than a month, the border has reopened for both trade and humanitarian traffic, alleviating economic pressure on a U.S. ally in the counter-IS fight.

Jan 20, 2022

Northern exports resume after Turkey pipeline explosion

The temporary outage had no apparent impact on oil field operations or export volumes, but the cause of the incident is a matter of uncertainty and potential concern.

Jan 19, 2022

Oil worker shot in attempted highway robbery

Despite the presence of a security protection team, an armed gang attacked a convoy carrying international oil workers to the Basra airport.

Jan 11, 2022

KRG shuts border with Syrian Kurds, cutting oil artery

The closure blocks a major source of funding for the Rojava administration, a U.S. ally in the fight against IS.

Dec 15, 2021

Water shortages prompt RPG fire near Gharraf oil field

As Iraq begins to suffer the intensifying effects of climate change, competition for water threatens to spark conflict.

Dec 7, 2021

Intensifying IS attacks strike near northern oil fields

In a single week, deadly insurgent operations near the Khurmala, Avana, Bai Hassan, and Sarqala oil fields showcase IS's firepower and persistence.

Nov 23, 2021

Student protests highlight ongoing KRG budget pressures

Demonstrators have blocked highways and picketed government buildings in Sulaimaniya and Erbil, demanding a further unwinding of government austerity measures.