Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani confirmed today, Friday, that the government will not hesitate to take all necessary measures to protect the country's sovereignty. In an interview with Bloomberg, the Prime Minister stated, "No single party, whether external or internal, can deprive the Iraqi government of its rights and its role in establishing security." He added, "Our position is clear, and we will not hesitate to take all necessary measures to protect our sovereignty."
He continued: "So far, there is no problem regarding the production and export of Iraqi oil," noting that "events continue in this sensitive location that constitutes more than 30 percent of the world's energy supplies." He mentioned, "It is certain that the current conditions are concerning for both exporters and importers," warning that "prolonging this war in Gaza and the West Bank will lead to an expansion of the conflict, which has already happened."
He affirmed, saying, "We have no problem with the Turkish side; they have shown readiness, but there is an issue with the oil-producing companies in the Kurdistan region," clarifying that "the dispute between Baghdad and Erbil revolves around the cost of producing the barrels."
He pointed out that "Iraq is an active member of OPEC, and we make decisions through discussions and understandings," adding, "Our plan is to rely on our available gas, whether associated with oil or natural gas."
He further stated, "We plan to meet our gas needs within 3-5 years and reach a stage where we do not burn gas," concluding: "We have allocated $4 billion for gas revenues, and once we reach self-sufficiency, this amount will be allocated for other projects."
