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Wednesday, August 5, 2026

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HomeEnergyBaghdad Reaffirms Oil Security Guarantees as Salary Deal Progresses with Erbil

Baghdad Reaffirms Oil Security Guarantees as Salary Deal Progresses with Erbil

Baghdad strengthened its stance on Iraq oil security guarantees on Sunday. Government spokesperson Haider al-Aboudi addressed the status of oil firms operating in the Kurdistan Region. He connected stable production directly to funding public-sector salaries. He also said Baghdad continues close coordination with Erbil on financial management.

Al-Aboudi said Iraq oil security guarantees apply to all operating companies across the country. He stressed that Kurdistan Region employees depend on consistent revenue flows from energy exports. He also highlighted progress on the ASYCUDA customs system between Baghdad and Erbil. That system aims to speed up customs processing and improve financial transfers.

He described current financial pressure as temporary and manageable. He linked these challenges to regional instability and disruptions in global energy markets. He also said conditions should improve after key shipping routes reopen. In addition, he rejected the idea of foreign borrowing to cover budget gaps.

Al-Aboudi confirmed that the cabinet formation process will conclude before the end of July. He tied this timeline to the upcoming official visit to Washington. He said discussions will focus on investment opportunities and security cooperation. He also emphasized stronger state authority over weapons and national institutions.

He added that corruption remains one of Iraq’s most serious governance threats. The government will audit past contracts and review stalled projects while reinforcing Iraq oil security guarantees across the sector. He confirmed that the prime minister will not enter the next parliamentary elections. He also denied any plans to form a new political party.