Iraq and Kurdistan Regional Government Resume Crude Exports Amid Rising Tensions

Crude exports from Iraq's Kirkuk oilfields to Turkey's Ceyhan port have restarted through a pipeline, following a pivotal agreement between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). The North Oil Company confirmed this development, starting with an initial capacity of 250,000 barrels per day.

This agreement includes forming a joint committee to prepare the resumption of oil exports and ensuring revenue returns to the federal treasury. Security measures will also be heightened to protect oilfields and guarantee uninterrupted operations.

KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has highlighted the urgency in lifting trade restrictions and securing a safe environment for oil production. Meanwhile, tensions over economic control and security challenges persist, as seen in the recent plunge in oil production due to conflicts in the region.