Iraq is seeking alternatives to Iranian gas imports to reduce dependence amid sanctions. U.S. pressures Iraq to eliminate Iranian gas purchases, while Iraq explores options from Qatar and Turkmenistan. The country is also developing infrastructure to enhance gas processing capabilities. The ongoing energy crisis remains a significant challenge for Iraq.
Iraq is actively searching for alternatives to Iranian gas imports in response to the need to reduce reliance on its neighbor, which is currently facing sanctions. According to Saad Jassem, an official in Iraq’s electricity ministry, there is a determination to diversify the sources of gas imports. Despite a recent U.S. decision to end a sanctions waiver that permitted Iraq to purchase electricity from Iran, gas imports from Iran are still ongoing.
Iran supplies approximately one-third of Iraq’s energy requirements through its gas and electricity. A U.S. diplomat indicates that the Iraqi government has been urged to make urgent progress in eliminating all purchases of Iranian natural gas. The relationship between Iraq and Iran remains complicated, particularly amid heightened tensions following Iran’s dismissal of U.S. negotiations regarding its nuclear program.
Jassem highlighted the urgent need for alternative energy sources, stating that Iraq is exploring options from Qatar and Oman, as well as negotiating with Turkmenistan for gas deliveries via pipelines through Iran. The country is also establishing two floating liquefied natural gas terminals in Khor al-Zubair, expected to become operational by June, capable of processing up to 19 million cubic meters of gas per day.
Balancing relations between Iran and the U.S. poses a significant challenge for Iraq, particularly in the pursuit of energy self-sufficiency. Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s government aims to end gas flaring by 2028 in order to utilize the gas from oil fields to meet power station needs.
The ongoing power crisis, exacerbated by economic difficulties and increased consumption, has led to shortages and social unrest, particularly during summer heatwaves. Although Iraq and Iran recently renewed a gas import agreement for five years, actual deliveries remain much lower than the contracted amounts, contributing to significant electricity supply challenges.
Iraq’s initiative to seek alternatives to Iranian gas imports underscores its urgent need to stabilize its energy situation amid geopolitical pressures and domestic challenges. By diversifying its energy sources and establishing new infrastructure, Iraq aims to enhance its energy independence and mitigate the impact of supply disruptions on its population.
Original Source: www.wyomingnewsnow.tv
