Regional tensions linked to Iran have pushed Iraq to search for new oil export routes. A report says Baghdad now looks to the Kurdistan Region as a key route for exports.
According to the report, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani asked the Kurdistan Regional Government to allow oil exports through its pipeline network. Baghdad wants to export 200,000 barrels of Kirkuk oil per day.
Therefore, oil would move through the regional pipeline. It would then reach the Turkish port of Ceyhan. This port serves as a major hub for global crude oil shipments.
The request came after global oil prices rose sharply. Prices recently passed $100 per barrel in international markets. Higher prices and regional instability increased pressure on Iraq to secure reliable export routes.
Another reason is the disruption at the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait is one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes. Any closure or instability can block supplies from reaching global markets.
The Kurdistan pipeline offers an alternative. The pipeline that runs toward Turkey can transport more than 700,000 barrels per day. This capacity makes the region an important export corridor for Iraq.
A senior Kurdish official spoke anonymously to Al-Monitor. The official said the Kurdistan Regional Government has several conditions. These include ending economic pressure from Baghdad. They also include granting the region greater authority over border crossings and external trade.
Meanwhile, the administration of Donald Trump is increasing diplomatic pressure on Baghdad and Erbil. Washington wants the Kurdistan pipeline to resume full operations. The goal is to reduce pressure on global energy markets.
Security tensions also remain high. Iran-aligned armed groups have intensified attacks near oil facilities. Some attacks occurred near Erbil International Airport.
Masrour Barzani has called on Baghdad to stop these groups. He warned that continued attacks threaten stability in the Kurdistan Region.
Analysts say Baghdad’s request could start a new phase in relations between Erbil and Baghdad. Regional conflict and global energy demand again highlight Kurdistan’s strategic role in Iraq’s economy.
