Geopolitical Briefing: Iraq
19 May 2025
- The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) announced its dissolution, with Iraq prepared to oversee the disarmament process.
- Iraq hosted the 34th Arab League Summit in Baghdad, launching initiatives for regional integration and pledging substantial aid for Gaza and Lebanon.
- Iraq committed to reducing oil exports by 100,000 barrels per day in May and June to align with OPEC+ production targets.
- Iraqi security forces conducted operations in Saladin province, targeting terrorist elements to enhance internal security.
- Iraq continues to modernize its air defense capabilities, including the procurement of advanced missile systems.(The New Arab, rudaw.net, Quantum Commodity Intelligence, شفق نيوز)
On May 12, 2025, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) formally declared its dissolution, ending a four-decade insurgency against Turkey. The disarmament process is expected to unfold over several months, with Iraq expressing readiness to oversee the surrender of weapons and ensure the process proceeds smoothly. This development aligns with Iraq’s strategic objective of maintaining territorial integrity and addressing Kurdish secessionist movements, while also enhancing regional security cooperation. (AP News, Reuters)
Iraq hosted the 34th Arab League Summit in Baghdad on May 17, 2025, marking a significant step in its efforts to enhance regional Islamic integration. The summit focused on pressing regional issues, including the conflict in Gaza. Iraq pledged $20 million each for the reconstruction of Gaza and Lebanon and proposed several initiatives aimed at bolstering Arab cooperation in security, economy, and environmental challenges. These efforts underscore Iraq’s commitment to strengthening ties with neighboring Muslim countries and playing a proactive role in regional affairs. (Stars and Stripes, The Jerusalem Post, Wikipedia)
In adherence to OPEC+ agreements, Iraq announced plans to reduce its crude oil exports to 3.2 million barrels per day for May and June 2025, down from 3.42 million barrels per day in March. This move is part of Iraq’s commitment to stabilize global oil markets and demonstrates its dedication to international agreements, reflecting its strategic goal of economic stability and resource control. (Reuters)
Iraqi security forces conducted operations in Saladin province, targeting terrorist elements in rugged and rural areas. These operations are part of ongoing efforts to enhance internal security and combat terrorism, aligning with Iraq’s strategic objective of reasserting sovereignty and maintaining control over its territory. (شفق نيوز)
Iraq continues to modernize its air defense capabilities, including the procurement of advanced missile systems such as the South Korean M-SAM-II. These upgrades aim to enhance Iraq’s airspace protection and reduce reliance on foreign military support, supporting its strategic goal of increased control over national security. (Army Recognition)
