Kurdistan Oil Output Remains Low Amid Security Threats
Kurdistan Region oil output has remained at a low level due to international companies halting production over security threats. The Interior Minister, Rebar Ahmad, stated that companies will resume work if adequate security guarantees and protection are provided.
The conflict in the region has led to ongoing security threats, with drone attacks during the Iran-US war in February and renewed regional tensions in July affecting energy production. Several international companies, including Dana Gas, Pearl Petroleum, and ShaMaran Petroleum, suspended or reduced operations following these incidents.
Average combined production at ShaMaran's Atrush and Sarsang fields fell to 1,900 barrels per day in the second quarter of 2026, down 94.7 percent from the previous quarter, due to security conditions and the impact of the Iran war. The Kurdistan Regional Government is working with international oil companies and the Iraqi army's General Staff to establish security arrangements.
The US-led coalition to confront ISIS is set to withdraw by September 30, taking defense systems that have protected energy facilities in the region. Baghdad has promised to cooperate with allowing defense systems from international companies to be deployed for protection.