Iraqi leaders anticipate renewed uncertainty from second Trump administration

The revival of a “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran is likely to extend into Iraq, with implications for domestic politics, banking, and the oil sector.

U.S. President Donald Trump delivers a statement about Iran flanked by U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, Vice President Mike Pence and military leaders at the White House in Washington, U.S., January 8, 2020. (KEVIN LAMARQUE/Reuters)

Energy

Iraqi oil exports recede as OPEC-plus extends cuts

Iraq's oil sales continued a slow decline in November as the OPEC-plus coalition decided quotas will stay lower for longer.

Politics

Parliament goes into recess without passing KRG oil amendment

Budget legislation that could have helped restart Iraq’s northern crude exports is delayed until at least January.

Security

Baghdad-Erbil progress fuels hope for counter-insurgency fight

The formation of two joint brigades highlights improving cooperation that could help combat IS militants and close security gaps.

Interviews

Q&A: Jassim Kamel Marzouq, director of the Khor al-Zubair port

As Iraq’s fuel trade increases, a central hub for fuel exports and imports is expanding.