The process of resuming the Kurdistan Region’s oil exports is getting underway, with Baghdad declaring its commitment to protecting the fields and guaranteeing safety for foreign companies.

Resumption of Oil Exports

The Ministry of Natural Resources announced that during a meeting between a high-level Kurdistan Region delegation, oil-producing companies, the Iraqi Prime Minister, and the Minister of Oil, a final decision was reached to resume the export of Kurdistan Region oil.

According to the agreement, the companies will restart production, and the oil will be pumped through the Kurdistan-Ceyhan Pipeline to the Ceyhan port in Turkey.

Security Responsibility for the Fields

The statement emphasized that the responsibility for protecting the oil fields of the Kurdistan Region rests upon the federal government.

Baghdad has agreed to be held responsible for any attack launched from within Iraqi territory against the oil fields, directly addressing the demands of foreign corporations that required security guarantees before restarting operations.

Meeting Between al-Zaidi and Foreign Corporations

On June 3, 2026, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi met with the Kurdistan Region delegation and representatives of the oil companies.

Al-Zaidi urged the corporations to resume operations as soon as possible and pledged to fulfill all their demands regarding security provisions.

He also noted that Iraq has suffered severe economic losses due to the halt of oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz, making it essential to compensate for these deficits by expanding production within the Kurdistan Region.

Background of the Production Halt

The suspension of operations by the oil companies occurred after armed groups began launching attacks against the oil fields of the Kurdistan Region in late February, following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran.

This volatile security situation forced the corporations to halt their operations until the federal government provided formal protection guarantees.

Ongoing Negotiations Between Erbil and Baghdad

Omed Sabah, the President of the Diwan of the KRG Council of Ministers, stated that negotiations with Baghdad will continue.

Another delegation from the Kurdistan Region is scheduled to visit Baghdad to finalize all outstanding issues related to oil, public sector salaries, and domestic revenues, aiming to reach a comprehensive agreement that protects the interests of both sides.