Amanze Chinonye
Iraq is engaging in talks with Iran to allow the safe transit of its oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz while simultaneously working to restore the long-dormant Kirkuk‑Ceyhan pipeline to Türkiye, the country’s Oil Minister Hayan Abdul‑Ghani said on Tuesday.
The efforts are aimed at stabilizing Iraqi crude exports after recent attacks on tankers in national waters disrupted production and shipment. “There is ongoing communication with Iran regarding allowing the passage of some Iraqi oil tankers,” Abdul‑Ghani told the Iraqi News Agency (INA).
The planned approvals follow similar arrangements Tehran has reportedly granted to Turkish and Indian vessels, providing a framework for controlled tanker transit.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIraqi oil exports had effectively halted for two to three days after hostilities began, forcing production down to about 1.2 million barrels per day from a pre-crisis level of 4.3 million barrels per day. Iraq was among the first OPEC producers to reduce output amid the outbreak of the regional conflict.
Restoring flows via the Strait of Hormuz is expected to allow Iraq to partially resume exports while maintaining refinery operations and meeting domestic energy demand. “The agreement is crucial for sustaining Iraq’s economic and energy stability during this crisis,” Abdul‑Ghani said.
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In parallel, Iraq is preparing to revive the Kirkuk‑Ceyhan pipeline, a key northern export route that has been largely inactive due to militant attacks and political disputes.
Inspections along the pipeline are underway to restart safe operations to Ceyhan port in southern Türkiye, with Baghdad coordinating with the Kurdistan Regional Government to facilitate northern route exports.
Regional data indicate that Middle East oil shipments have fallen by at least 60% amid ongoing closures of the Strait of Hormuz, adding pressure on Iraq and other Gulf producers.
Analysts say that resuming controlled tanker transit and reopening the Kirkuk‑Ceyhan pipeline could relieve strain on global crude flows while supporting Iraq’s domestic energy needs.
The Iraqi Ministry of Oil is now coordinating with shipping companies and refineries to resume exports in a controlled manner, prioritizing domestic supply while partially restoring the country’s international oil trade.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
