The Association of the Petroleum Industry of Kurdistan (APIKUR) has harshly criticized the recent attacks on Kurdistan oil fields. These drone strikes caused severe damage and threatened the lives of local and foreign workers. APIKUR emphasized the urgent need for protection of oil sites across the Region.
The association released a strong statement following the incidents. The attacks on Kurdistan oil fields took place over two days and damaged important infrastructure. APIKUR said these violent acts endangered hundreds of workers, both Iraqi citizens and expatriates from several countries.
In reaction, APIKUR member companies decided to suspend oil production. Even firms not directly hit by the attacks joined in the suspension. As a result, oil production in the Region dropped by over 200,000 barrels per day. This stoppage marks a serious blow to the local economy and regional oil output.
APIKUR urged both the Iraqi government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to act fast. They called for stronger efforts to guard staff and secure energy facilities. According to their statement, both governments must do more to stop future attacks on Kurdistan oil fields.
APIKUR’s spokesperson, Myles B. Caggins III, stated the industry wants to resume work quickly. He stressed the companies are ready to restart production and sales. However, that will only happen once an agreement is reached between Baghdad, Erbil, and the oil firms. He noted that the Iraq-Turkey Pipeline remains idle due to ongoing disputes.
The timing of the attacks adds pressure to already complex negotiations. Talks between the Iraqi Federal Government, the KRG, and international oil companies continue. All parties are working toward a resolution to reopen the Iraq-Turkey Pipeline. The recent violence, however, may delay progress.
APIKUR believes oil producers can play a key role in Iraq’s economic growth. But they must feel safe and supported. The association made it clear that protecting energy workers and infrastructure is a top priority. Without security, operations cannot continue.
The future of energy cooperation depends on peace and coordination. Both Baghdad and Erbil must take action now. These repeated attacks on Kurdistan oil fields cannot continue without serious long-term consequences.