?Geopolitical Briefing: Iraq
25 May 2025
- Baghdad declared recent energy contracts signed by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) with U.S. firms as invalid, intensifying disputes over resource control.
- France assumed command of NATO Mission Iraq, signaling continued foreign military involvement in Iraqi security affairs.
- Iraq’s crude oil exports to the United States experienced a significant decline, reflecting shifting trade dynamics.
- The American University of Baghdad celebrated its first graduating class, marking a milestone in Iraq’s educational development.
- Iraq announced nationwide internet shutdowns during exam periods to prevent cheating, raising concerns over digital rights.(Reuters, shape.nato.int, AP News, Internet Society Pulse)
On 21 May 2025, Iraq’s Oil Minister Hayan Abdel-Ghani expressed strong reservations regarding recent energy agreements signed by the KRG with U.S. companies, valued at approximately $110 billion. The federal government declared these contracts, pertaining to the development of the Miran and Topkhana-Kurdamir gas fields in Sulaimaniya, as “null and void,” emphasizing that such agreements require federal authorization. This move underscores Baghdad’s efforts to assert control over national resources and limit unauthorized foreign involvement in its energy sector. (Reuters)
On 22 May 2025, Major General Christophe Hintzy of France assumed command of NATO Mission Iraq, succeeding Lieutenant General Lucas Schreurs of the Netherlands. The ceremony in Baghdad highlighted NATO’s ongoing advisory role in Iraq’s security sector. While the mission aims to assist in building sustainable and effective security institutions, the continued presence of foreign military leadership may influence Iraq’s autonomy in security matters. (shape.nato.int, NATO)
Data released on 25 May 2025 by the U.S. Energy Information Administration indicated a sharp decline in Iraq’s crude oil exports to the United States, averaging 85,000 barrels per day—a decrease of 67,000 barrels per day from the previous week. This significant drop may reflect changing dynamics in global oil trade and Iraq’s strategic decisions in aligning its exports with broader economic and geopolitical considerations. (??? ????)
On 24 May 2025, the American University of Baghdad celebrated the graduation of its first class of 38 students. Established in 2021 and located in the former al-Faw Palace, the university represents a transformation from a symbol of past regimes to a center of modern education. The graduation signifies progress in Iraq’s efforts to rebuild and enhance its educational infrastructure, contributing to the nation’s development goals. (AP News)
Iraq’s Ministry of Communication announced on 19 May 2025 that the internet would be suspended nationwide during the upcoming exam period, from 6:00 to 8:00 AM on exam days, to prevent cheating. While aimed at preserving academic integrity, the decision raises concerns about digital rights and access to information, highlighting the balance between security measures and civil liberties in Iraq’s governance. (Internet Society Pulse)
