Korek Telecom has asked Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi to intervene in its escalating dispute with the Communications and Media Commission. The Erbil-based company says regulatory measures threaten its operations and could affect Iraq’s investment climate.
In a statement, Korek rejected the CMC’s decision to cancel a settlement agreement reached between both sides last year. The company argued that the commission’s executive head lacks authority to cancel an agreement approved by higher authorities.
The CMC has announced legal and regulatory steps to suspend Korek’s network operations. The regulator also advised subscribers against renewing services, adding credit, or making payments to the company.
According to the CMC, Korek’s operating contract expired after the company allegedly failed to meet financial and contractual obligations. The regulator also cited unpaid debts and said further measures would protect state funds.
However, Korek disputes those claims and accuses the regulator of taking arbitrary actions. The company argues that administrative obstacles delayed implementation of the previous settlement despite months of government discussions.
Korek also alleges that political considerations influenced the regulator’s decisions. Furthermore, the company describes itself as Iraq’s only national mobile operator and warns against measures that could eliminate its operations.
The dispute has continued for several years and previously affected services for Korek subscribers. In November 2023, the regulator introduced measures over alleged unpaid financial obligations.
Later, in February 2025, the CMC cut Korek’s internet services. The regulator cited continued violations and the company’s failure to meet repayment requirements.
A parliamentary committee official previously estimated Korek’s outstanding obligations at around two trillion Iraqi dinars. That figure equals approximately $1.5 billion based on the reported exchange rate.
Korek maintains that it remains willing to resolve the dispute through legal channels. Meanwhile, the company has warned that prolonged regulatory uncertainty could weaken investor confidence in Iraq.
The dispute also comes as Baghdad considers establishing a fourth national mobile operator. Communications Minister Mustafa Sanad said the proposed company would remain Iraqi-owned while relying on Vodafone for operations.
Consequently, the Korek dispute carries wider implications for Iraq’s telecommunications market. Further developments could influence competition, investment confidence, consumer services, and the government’s approach to telecommunications regulation.