Iraq is seeking alternatives to Iranian gas imports due to U.S. sanctions and aims to diversify its energy sources. Officials are exploring options from Qatar, Oman, and Turkmenistan, while developing gas terminals to reduce reliance on Iranian supplies. The energy situation remains precarious, with ongoing efforts to enhance self-sufficiency and address electricity shortages amid public discontent.
Iraq is actively seeking alternatives to its gas imports from Iran, with discussions centered around options from the Gulf region. This initiative aims to reduce its reliance on Iran, particularly in light of sanctions that affect the neighboring country. With Iran currently supplying approximately one-third of Iraq’s gas and electricity needs, the Iraqi government is considering diversifying its energy sources.
Saad Jassem, an official from Iraq’s electricity ministry, stated, “Previously, we only had imports from Iran, but there are government directives and a political will to rely on multiple sources of imports.” Although the Iraqi officials have indicated they have not yet halted gas imports from Iran, U.S. diplomats have urged for a swift transition away from reliance on Iranian natural gas.
Despite possessing substantial oil resources, Iraq faces significant challenges, including deteriorating infrastructure and frequent power outages. Jassem expressed concerns over potential disruptions, stating, “We must consider the worst-case scenario — if there is an interruption, we have prepared alternatives.” Iraq is exploring partnerships with Qatar and Oman for gas supply, as well as negotiating with Turkmenistan for gas via Iranian pipelines.
To bolster energy security, Iraq is developing two floating liquefied natural gas terminals in the Khor al-Zubair region, aimed to be operational by June. These facilities are expected to process up to 19 million cubic meters of gas daily, which could significantly alleviate the shortfall of Iranian gas. Jassem highlighted the importance of energy availability, remarking that disruptions could drastically reduce electricity supply.
Iraq’s government, led by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, aims to achieve energy self-sufficiency by 2028 by curtailing gas flaring in oil fields and repurposing it for electricity generation. Relations with both Iran and the United States remain complex, especially as the U.S. reinstates sanctions under President Trump’s administration. While a new five-year gas import agreement with Iran was established, the reality remains that Iraq’s actual gas receipt has significantly fallen short of projections, adding to the country’s struggles with electricity shortages and public discontent during high-demand seasons.
Iraq’s efforts to diversify its energy imports are driven by the need to lessen dependence on Iranian gas, particularly as U.S. sanctions loom. The country’s strategy involves establishing partnerships with Gulf nations and developing infrastructure for liquefied natural gas. Despite these initiatives, Iraq continues to grapple with energy supply challenges, which significantly affect its population. The balancing act between Iran and the United States underscores the complexity of Iraq’s energy diplomacy and its pursuit for self-sufficiency in the energy sector.
Original Source: www.newstopicnews.com
