Iraq’s Oil Ministry has issued a call for an urgent meeting to revive stalled talks on the export of oil from the Kurdistan region.
The move comes amid ongoing tensions between Baghdad and Kurdish authorities over export rights and revenue sharing, and follows growing international pressure to resolve the dispute.
The ministry said it has already taken practical steps to show it is serious about reaching a deal. Officials stressed that while they are willing to cooperate, they will not accept demands that go beyond legal agreements. The ministry pointed to existing laws and budget amendments as the framework for restarting exports and urged all sides to work within these limits.
Officials are particularly focused on activating an amendment to the national budget law that was passed in early February. This amendment is seen as the legal basis for reopening the Iraq-Türkiye pipeline, which has been idle since exports from Kurdistan were halted.
The Oil Ministry also warned against continued unofficial crude sales, saying a formal agreement is essential to bring all exports under government oversight and stop the flow of oil through unauthorized routes.
Behind the scenes, the United States has also entered the fray. Washington has reportedly pressured Baghdad to allow exports to resume or risk potential consequences, including sanctions. U.S. officials argue that halting oil flows disrupts the market and harms both local and international stakeholders.
However, foreign oil companies working in Kurdistan have made their position clear. APIKUR, a coalition of eight energy firms operating in the region, says it will not resume operations unless Baghdad gives written guarantees. These include honoring current contracts and providing a clear plan for payments related to both past and future shipments.
As political and economic pressures mount, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the deadlock can be broken and oil can start flowing again from Iraq’s northern fields.