Geopolitical Briefing: Iraq
11 May 2025(Reuters)
- Iraq and Turkey reaffirmed their commitment to joint security operations targeting Kurdish militant groups in northern Iraq.
- Iraq is set to host the Arab Summit in Baghdad on May 17, signaling efforts to enhance regional Islamic integration.
- Iraq plans to cut oil exports by approximately 100,000 barrels per day in May to comply with OPEC+ production limits.
- Iraqi security forces conducted operations in Saladin province, resulting in the arrest of a suspected terrorist.
- The Iraqi Air Defense Command continues its modernization efforts, integrating advanced radar and missile systems.(Stars and Stripes, Arab News, World Oil, X (formerly Twitter), Wikipedia)
On May 8, 2025, Iraq and Turkey reaffirmed their commitment to joint security operations targeting Kurdish militant groups, particularly the PKK, in northern Iraq. This collaboration aims to address the presence of the PKK, which both countries consider a significant security threat. The joint efforts underscore Iraq’s determination to maintain territorial integrity and contain Kurdish secessionist movements, aligning with its strategic goal of reasserting sovereignty and security control.(Stars and Stripes)
Iraq is preparing to host the Arab Summit in Baghdad on May 17, 2025. The summit is expected to bring together leaders from various Arab nations to discuss regional cooperation and integration. Hosting the summit reflects Iraq’s efforts to enhance regional Islamic integration and strengthen ties with neighboring Muslim countries, contributing to its strategic objectives.(Arab News)
In response to OPEC+ pressure to comply with production limits, Iraq plans to reduce its oil exports by approximately 100,000 barrels per day in May, bringing the total to an average of 3.2 million barrels per day. This move demonstrates Iraq’s commitment to international agreements and its strategic goal of economic stability and resource control.(World Oil)
Iraqi security forces conducted operations in Saladin province, resulting in the arrest of a suspected terrorist. These operations highlight Iraq’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and maintain internal security, aligning with its strategic objective of reasserting sovereignty and security control.(X (formerly Twitter))
The Iraqi Air Defense Command continues its modernization efforts by integrating advanced radar and missile systems, including the Thales Ground Master 403 radar and the Cheongung II medium-range surface-to-air missile systems. These upgrades aim to enhance Iraq’s airspace protection capabilities, supporting its strategic goal of increased control over national security and reducing reliance on foreign military support.(Wikipedia)
