Iraq has taken a major step toward expanding its energy sector with the launch of a new drilling project in the Amerli district of Saladin province. The move marks a significant milestone for Iraq northern oil exploration, as it represents the first exploratory well drilled in the country’s northern provinces since 1978.
The project brings together the North Oil Company, the Iraqi Drilling Company, and the Oil Exploration Company under a joint agreement. Technical and engineering teams have already started drilling operations at the new site. Officials view the project as an important effort to uncover additional oil and gas resources in areas that have seen limited exploration activity for decades.
The Iraqi Drilling Company confirmed that work began after extensive planning and coordination between the participating organizations. Engineers and specialists will use modern exploration techniques to evaluate the area’s hydrocarbon potential. The project reflects a broader government effort to strengthen the country’s long-term energy outlook.
Oil Minister Bassem Mohammed Khudair said the ministry continues to prioritize exploration activities across Iraq. He explained that officials want to make better use of geological and geophysical data when identifying promising locations. According to the minister, expanding reserves remains a key objective for the country’s energy strategy.
In addition, the ministry aims to increase proven oil and gas resources while replacing reserves lost through production over time. Khudair stressed that stronger reserve levels can support future output and create greater economic opportunities. He also noted that growing the country’s resource base could enhance Iraq’s role in international energy markets.
The latest drilling operation highlights the renewed focus on Iraq northern oil exploration after nearly five decades of inactivity in the region. Industry experts believe unexplored areas may still contain valuable hydrocarbon deposits. Successful discoveries could encourage additional investment and further exploration campaigns across northern Iraq.
Oil remains the backbone of Iraq’s economy. Revenue from crude exports provides the vast majority of government income and supports many public spending programs. As a result, officials continue searching for ways to sustain production and secure future energy supplies.
Recent estimates from international energy organizations indicate that Iraq possesses more than 145 billion barrels of proven crude oil reserves. These figures place the country among the world’s leading oil holders. However, authorities recognize the need to identify new resources to maintain long-term production levels.
The Amerli project could become an important test for future exploration efforts. Positive results may open the door to more drilling operations in northern provinces that have remained largely untouched for generations. For now, energy officials see the initiative as a crucial step in advancing Iraq northern oil exploration and strengthening the nation’s economic future.