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Iraq oil production and export response to Hormuz crisis

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2026-08-18 02:11 UTC → 2026-08-21 16:52 UTC · added removed

Iraq is adjusting its oil production and export strategies in response to a crisis in the Strait of Hormuz caused by US-Israel strikes on Iran. Initially, reports indicated that Iraqi oil exports had dropped from 3.4 million barrels per day to between 1.5 and 1.7 million barrels per day due to maritime trade restrictions. In response, Prime Minister Ali al Zaidi ordered oil companies to operate 24 hours a day to boost crude production and develop energy infrastructure. The Prime Minister emphasized the need to strengthen alternative export routes and rehabilitate pipelines to mitigate the crisis. By mid-August, daily oil exports reportedly rose to approximately two million barrels, with total monthly exports reaching about 26 million barrels. This increase represents the highest level since the onset of the conflict impacting the Strait of Hormuz. To address ongoing logistical challenges from the closure of the Strait, Iraq is diversifying its export routes by utilizing the Ceyhan pipeline in Turkey and exploring increased shipments through Syria and Jordan. Prime Minister Al-Zaidi has announced an ambitious plan to increase daily oil production to between 8 and 10 million barrels within the next six years. To support this, Baghdad is seeking a higher production quota within the OPEC+ framework and has sent a delegation to Saudi Arabia to negotiate. Furthermore, Iraq has secured approximately $200 billion in energy sector contracts with international firms, including Chevron, Halliburton, and HKN Energy. The American consulting firm DeGolyer and MacNaughton is currently conducting an independent assessment of maximum sustainable production capacity, with findings expected in late September to inform 2027 production baselines.

Versions

  1. 2026-08-21 16:52 UTC Iraq oil production and export response to Hormuz crisis
  2. 2026-08-18 02:11 UTC Iraq oil production and export response to Hormuz crisis

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