Baghdad, Iraq- Gas imports from Iran to Iraq are continuing despite the expiration of a waiver previously granted by the United States, according to Iraqi government officials. Authorities have also stated that contingency plans are in place should the gas supply be interrupted.
A spokesperson for Iraq’s Electricity Ministry mentioned that no official notification has been received regarding the termination of the US exemption, and gas imports remain unaffected. Additionally, Iraq continues to import 1,000 megawatts of electricity from Iran via four transmission lines.
The most recent 120-day waiver, issued by the previous US administration to allow Iraq to purchase Iranian gas without violating sanctions, expired on Saturday. The current administration had earlier indicated that this exemption would not be extended as part of a broader strategy aimed at increasing pressure on Iran.
Iraq’s government is actively seeking a new exemption from Washington. In the event that an extension is not granted, Iraqi authorities have developed strategies to address the potential disruption in gas supply.
Iraq heavily depends on Iranian energy imports, though supply fluctuations are common. During the winter months, Iran temporarily halted gas exports to Iraq due to domestic shortages. To address such issues, Iran has implemented improved storage and management methods, enhancing its ability to fulfill commitments to Iraq and Turkey.
Recently, Iraq’s Electricity Minister met with Iran’s Oil Minister to discuss strengthening cooperation in the fields of oil, gas, petrochemicals, and electricity. Both parties underscored the importance of expanded collaboration in these sectors.
In a bid to enhance energy security, Iraq is working to channel its domestic natural gas toward power generation while reducing gas flaring. The government is also exploring alternative import options from countries such as Jordan, Turkey, and Turkmenistan while boosting its investment in renewable energy.
Iraq is advancing renewable energy initiatives, including a 1,000-megawatt solar project in Basra in partnership with a French energy company. Agreements have also been reached with energy firms from Saudi Arabia and the UAE to develop additional solar capacity across multiple provinces.
