Iraq faces new challenges in securing energy as talks on the Iraq Turkmenistan gas deal face obstacles. The United States strongly objects to the agreement because the gas would move through Iran. This route gives Tehran a share as a transit fee and profit from the Iraqi purchases.
Washington has taken a firm stance against the project. U.S. officials argue that the deal strengthens Iran at a time when sanctions target its energy sector. By opposing the agreement, Washington hopes to reduce Iranian gains. This position, however, creates fresh difficulties for Iraq as it searches for stable energy supplies.
In addition, the Iraq Turkmenistan gas deal was seen as an important step for Baghdad. With growing demand and limited domestic production, Iraq needs reliable partners to cover shortages. Turkmenistan, with its rich gas reserves, offered a practical solution. Yet, the reliance on Iran as a transit country has become the main obstacle.
Iraq now stands in a difficult position. On one side, the country urgently needs new sources of gas to fuel power plants and meet rising demand. On the other side, U.S. objections slow progress and make negotiations more complex. The situation highlights how regional politics directly affect Iraq’s energy security.
Meanwhile, Turkmenistan remains interested in exporting gas. But without an acceptable route that avoids sanctions complications, the deal cannot move forward smoothly. Alternative transit paths are limited, and all require heavy investment. This reality leaves Iraq with fewer choices and greater pressure to find other solutions.
As the talks remain stalled, Baghdad may explore ways to increase domestic gas production. However, such projects need time and large investments. For now, the country continues to depend on imports, keeping the Iraq Turkmenistan gas deal an issue of great importance.
The repeated delays show how energy and politics remain closely linked in the region. Every step forward must balance both economic needs and international pressure. For Iraq, the path to reliable energy remains long and uncertain.