Myles Caggins, spokesperson for the Association of the Petroleum Industry of Kurdistan (APIKUR), stated that the main reason international oil production companies have not resumed operations in the Kurdistan Region is the ongoing security risks posed by drone and missile attacks.

Security Risks Continue to Affect Oil Operations

In an exclusive statement to Channel8, Myles Caggins explained that, following the ceasefire between the United States and Iran and the temporary easing of regional tensions, companies had quietly begun to restart their operations.

However, those activities were suspended once again after oil facilities came under renewed attacks.

Companies Seek Comprehensive Security Guarantees

Caggins added that APIKUR member companies have clearly informed the relevant authorities that they will not resume operations under any circumstances until comprehensive security guarantees are in place.

He emphasized that a secure working environment remains the primary condition for their return.

Outstanding Debt Remains Unpaid

Regarding the $1 billion debt owed to international oil companies, which was previously the subject of an agreement between the Iraqi Federal Government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), the former APIKUR spokesperson stated that the amount has not yet been recovered.

However, he noted that the companies do not consider the unpaid debt the main obstacle to the resumption of operations.

Government Efforts to Restart Production

During a joint meeting between a senior KRG delegation and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, the Prime Minister called on international oil companies to immediately resume production activities.

He also pledged that the federal government would address and meet its operational and security requirements.