Iraq and Kurdistan Reach Agreement to Resume Crude Exports Amid Tensions

Crude exports from Iraq's Kirkuk fields to Turkey's Ceyhan port have resumed as Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) reach an accord. The North Oil Company announced the restart of flows, and the KRG confirmed an agreement to form a joint committee to oversee preparations for resuming exports, with revenue returning to the federal treasury.

The KRG highlighted that security measures would be implemented to protect the oilfields and ensure ongoing export activities. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani voiced on X that the Kurdistan region would commence crude exports through its pipeline at the earliest opportunity given the 'exceptional circumstances' facing the country.

Parallel discussions with Baghdad are underway to lift import and trade restrictions while ensuring oil and gas companies can operate safely. Tensions have grown between Baghdad and the KRG over security and economic challenges, especially after disruptions in oil flows due to the Iran conflict, which also highlighted larger geopolitical tensions affecting the region.