November 1, 2023

1. Escalation of Iranian-Backed Militias in Iraq Raises Concerns. Iranian-backed Shiite militias in Iraq are escalating attacks on foreign military presence, challenging the Iraqi government’s authority and raising concerns about potential U.S. sanctions. The situation also highlights Iran’s use of regional proxies to end U.S. presence. The recent declaration by Al-Nujaba’s Secretary-General to militarily liberate Iraq adds to the tension. (MEO).
2. Kurdish Regional President Meets US Ambassador. The President of the Kurdistan Region, Nechirvan Barzani, met with the US Ambassador to Iraq, Alina Romanowski, to discuss enhancing relations between Iraq, the Kurdistan Region, and the United States, under the US-Iraqi strategic agreement. They emphasized continued cooperation and the importance of protecting the security of international coalition forces and diplomatic missions throughout Iraq. Internal conditions in the Kurdistan Region and recent developments in the region were also discussed (Bas News).
3. Islamic Resistance Targets US “Tanf” Base in Syria. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq announced the targeting of the “Tanf” base, affiliated with the American occupation in Syria, using two drones and confirming direct hits. This action continues the pattern of targeting American bases in Iraq and Syria in conjunction with the “Taufan Al-Aqsa” battle and the ongoing Israeli aggression on Gaza. The Pentagon reported approximately 23 attacks on US forces from October 17 to October 30 (Almayadeen).

November 2, 2023

1. Iraq Postpones Macron’s Baghdad Conference Due to Gaza Conflict. Iraq has postponed President Macron’s conference in Baghdad due to the Gaza conflict and France’s stance on Israel. The diplomatic event was aimed at boosting economic cooperation with neighboring Arab and Islamic nations but faced criticism given France’s support for Israel. Public protests, including incidents at French embassies, highlight growing discontent with France’s Middle East policies. The conference, originally slated for November 30, is now indefinitely postponed, reflecting the region’s complex dynamics (Alquds).
2. Secret Meetings Between US Ambassador and Iraqi Political Leaders on Embassy Closure Calls. US Ambassador to Iraq, Ylenia Romano, held intensive secret meetings with Iraqi political leaders, reflecting American concerns about calls for closing the US embassy. The unexpected calls come from influential figures in Iraq, raising alarm in Washington. These meetings aim to address the potential impact of embassy closure, given various agreements and cooperation in areas such as security and armaments. The Ambassador’s discreet approach seeks to gauge Iraqi government sentiment in light of public discontent over US support for Israel amid the Gaza conflict (Al Iraq News).
3. Iraqi Popular Mobilization Forces Raise Maximum Alert Status. The Iraqi Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) have raised their maximum alert status. They commended the success of the “Al-Aqsa Flood” operation and condemned Israeli actions in Gaza. The PMF emphasized their readiness to defend Iraq’s sovereignty and borders, addressing security challenges and maintaining national stability (Al-Nahar).

November 3, 2023

1. Iraqi “Islamic Resistance” Targets US Military Base in Erbil. The “Islamic Resistance” in Iraq announced the targeting of a US military base near Erbil airport with two drones on Thursday. They claimed the drones hit their targets directly and conducted this operation in response to the Israeli military operation in Gaza. A senior Pentagon official confirmed that US sites in Iraq and Syria faced 23 missile and drone attacks between October 17 and 30 (Youm7).
2. Muqtada al-Sadr Requests Access to Palestinian Borders for His Supporters. Muqtada al-Sadr, the leader of the Iraqi Sadr Movement, has asked four “neighboring countries to Palestine” – Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon, and Syria – to allow his followers to access the areas bordering Palestine, specifically Gaza (Sputnik Arabic).
3. Leaked Document Reveals Iraq’s Defensive Measures. A leaked military document shows Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi directing the armed forces to take defensive measures in anticipation of a potential regional conflict. Iraqi factions have also announced a new, more extensive phase in response to recent events (Alarabiya).

November 6, 2023

1. Iraqi PM Visits Tehran for Talks on Gaza Crisis. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has arrived in Tehran for official discussions with Iran’s President, Ebrahim Raisi. The talks will cover bilateral relations and the critical regional issue of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in Gaza (Iraqi News).
2. Popular Mobilization Units Target U.S. Forces in Erbil. On Saturday, the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) announced the targeting of the U.S. “Harir ” military base in northern Iraq using two drones, hitting their targets directly (Al Iraq News).
3. U.S. Suspends Information Exchange with Iraq at Ain al-Asad. U.S. forces have suspended information sharing channels with Iraqi military leaders stationed at Ain al-Asad base due to recent armed attacks. The U.S. has raised concerns about the leaking of their coordinates inside the base to factions conducting these attacks (Sharq Awsat).
4. Iraqi Kataib Hezbollah Threatens Escalation if Blinken Visits Baghdad. Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group, has threatened an “unprecedented escalation” in Iraq if US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visits Baghdad. A senior leader of Kataib Hezbollah expressed that Blinken was not welcome in Iraq, using derogatory language. Blinken’s visit to Baghdad remains unconfirmed by officials (Jerusalem Post).
5. Iran-Backed Militias in Iraq Threaten to Close Down US Embassy. An Iranian-backed Shiite militia in Iraq threatens to intensify attacks on US interests in response to the Israel-Gaza conflict, potentially leading to the closure of the US embassy in Iraq and risking regional stability (The National News).

November 7, 2023

1. Iranian-Backed Militias Strike US Bases Post High-Level US-Iraq-Iran Talks. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s Tehran visit post-U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s Baghdad meeting brought to light divergent views on Gaza’s conflict. While Blinken warned against threats to U.S. personnel, Iran’s leadership accused the U.S. of instigating the Gaza war and criticized its support for Israel. The talks stressed the need for a ceasefire and aid to Gaza. Subsequently, Iranian-backed militias attacked four U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria, a move seen as a direct reaction to these diplomatic engagements. The “Islamic Resistance in Iraq” claimed the strikes, signaling the volatile interplay between peace efforts and military actions in the region (Syria TV). 

November 8, 2023

1. In a significant step towards economic fortification, Iraq is set to diversify its energy sources by tapping into Turkmenistan’s gas reserves. Minister of Electricity, Ziyad Ali Fadel, has been at the helm of discussions, finalizing the deal to transport Turkmen gas through an Iranian pipeline. This move not only enhances Iraq’s energy security but also cements the bond of economic cooperation with its neighbors, painting a picture of progress in a region often shadowed by conflict (Al Iraq News).
2. Yet, the narrative of advancement is juxtaposed with persistent security challenges. The skies near Erbil airport in northern Iraq were recently the stage for an intense engagement as anti-terrorism units adeptly intercepted three armed drones. This defensive victory is just the latest chapter in an ongoing saga of hostilities, with the Islamic Resistance Movement in Iraq laying claim to the assault on the Harir military base—though, fortunately, no casualties or damage were reported. These drone encounters are but a fraction of the at least 38 attacks targeting the U.S.-led coalition forces since mid-October, a testament to the simmering tensions within the region. Each thwarted attack is a testament to the resilience and vigilance of the coalition’s defenses. Amidst this backdrop of strife, Iraq’s Prime Minister has issued a resolute declaration to bring the orchestrators of such belligerence to justice, signaling a steadfast commitment to the safety and stability of the nation and its international partners (Alsharq).

November 9, 2023

1. Ex-Iraqi PM Al-Maliki Threatens Danger to U.S. Forces in Iraq. Former Prime Minister Abbas al-Maliki, has openly declared that U.S. forces will not find safety in Iraq or the wider region as long as the U.S. continues to back Israel. In his statement during a press interview, he emphasized that the only way to de-escalate tensions in the region is for Washington to cease its support for what he refers to as the “Zionist occupier.” Al-Maliki warns of an open and escalating conflict against Israel, suggesting that the U.S. policy is pressuring regional leaders, including Iraq’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa al-Sudani, to prioritize U.S. interests and the protection of Israel, despite ongoing violations. This comes against the backdrop of claimed attacks by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq on American bases, signaling a volatile and deteriorating security situation for U.S. military presence in the region (Al Iraq News).
2. Armed Drone Strike Hits Al-Harir Air Base Housing U.S. Forces in Iraq. The Al-Harir Air Base in northern Iraq, known to host American troops, was the recent target of an armed drone attack, as confirmed by two security sources to Reuters. This development follows reports by Kurdish media of a significant explosion near Harir Airport in Erbil, within the Kurdistan region. Iraqi factions have publicly declared a war on Israel, identifying American military installations in Iraq as potential targets in retaliation for Israeli actions in the Gaza Strip. These factions, part of the “Islamic Resistance in Iraq,” have been responsible for prior assaults on various American bases, including “Ain al-Assad” and “Harir,” escalating hostilities in the region (Alsharq).
3. Gaza War Deepens Shiite Division in Iraq. The Israeli war on Gaza exacerbates Shiite divisions in Iraq, particularly within the “Coordination Framework.” Signals from meetings between Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken hint at a lack of US pressure, leading to continued attacks on US bases. The split within the framework, evident in former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki’s absence, reflects a sharp divide after Blinken’s visit and al-Sudani’s trip to Tehran (Sharq Awsat).
4. Turkiye Advances on “Al-Jazra” Dam Construction Despite Iraqi Protests. Turkiye’s ongoing construction of the “Al-Jazra” Dam on the Tigris River is set to cut Iraq’s water supply by over 50%, despite a decade of Iraqi objections. Iraqi Water Resources Minister Aoun Dhiab Abdullah highlights the anticipated reduction in water quality and quantity, amidst a severe water scarcity crisis in Iraq. Turkiye maintains its stance on the sovereign management of the river’s waters (Al Nahar). 

November 10, 2023

1. Iraqi Factions Target US Bases on Thursday in Response to Gaza Conflict. Iraqi armed factions have launched separate operations against American military bases in Iraq, including Ain al-Asad in the west and Harir in Erbil, northern Iraq. These operations, involving various weapons and drones, are reportedly in direct response to Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip and perceived US support for Israel. The Pentagon has acknowledged at least 40 drone and missile attacks on US forces by Iranian-backed groups in Iraq and Syria in recent weeks, coinciding with the Gaza war. While these attacks have caused only minor injuries, they underscore the heightened risk to American personnel in the region. The US maintains a presence of approximately 3,400 soldiers in Iraq and Syria, with air defenses actively intercepting hostile missiles and drones (Al Hadath). 
2. Iraq’s Military Spending and Armament Focus. In 2023, Iraq dedicated about 15% of its massive $153 billion budget, over $18 billion, to its security and military institutions. This substantial allocation is aimed at enhancing the capabilities of its armed forces, which include the ground force, air force, naval force, army aviation, and air defense, along with approximately 160,000 members of the Popular Mobilization Forces. Despite being ranked 45th globally in military strength, down from 4th before 2003, Iraq continues to prioritize modernizing its military with advanced weapons. The Iraqi government, recognizing the ongoing security challenges, including ISIS activity and regional conflicts like the Israeli war on Gaza, has been focused on strengthening its military institution. This includes revising armament contracts and enhancing air defense, with significant support from the US, Russia, and China for weaponry. Despite some political debates, especially regarding arms deals with the US and preferences for Russian contracts, the necessity of addressing security threats and empowering Iraqi forces remains a key government and parliamentary agenda (The New Arab).
3. Iraq at a Crossroads: Balancing US Relations and Domestic Pressures. Iraq faces a delicate geopolitical and domestic situation due to the conflict due to the war between Israel and Hamas. Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa Al-Sudani is navigating complex relationships between the United States and various Iraqi factions, including Shiite militias aligned with Iran. Iraq’s historical stance against recognizing Israel and criminalizing relations with it adds to the complexity, particularly in light of the recent conflict. Al-Sudani’s diplomatic efforts, including communication with regional and US leaders, reflect attempts to balance these dynamics. However, the resurgence of attacks on US interests in Iraq by pro-Iranian militias complicates this balance, potentially threatening Iraq’s political stability and its crucial relationships, notably with the United States. The presence of American forces and Iraq’s reliance on the US for economic and security assistance further entangle these dynamics. US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken’s visit to Baghdad underscores the importance of Iraq in the broader Middle East context and the necessity of a diplomatic approach to ensure stability in the region. Al-Sudani faces intense pressures from within his coalition and rivals like Muqtada al-Sadr, making the situation increasingly precarious (Shafaq News). 
4. Iraq Asserts Oil Export Increase Aligns with OPEC+ Agreement. The Iraqi Ministry of Oil has stated that the recent increase in the country’s crude oil exports is a natural occurrence and does not contravene the OPEC+ agreement on production levels. This increase, sometimes attributed to a decrease in domestic consumption or natural conditions affecting consumption rates, is seen as part of normal fluctuations and doesn’t impact agreed production quotas. Iraq reaffirms its commitment to the OPEC+ agreement, emphasizing its role in maintaining global oil market stability for the benefit of producers, consumers, and investors. The Ministry also highlighted OPEC Plus’s readiness to make decisions for market stability and balance, noting optimistic projections for increased oil demand and economic growth, particularly in China post-pandemic. This statement comes amidst concerns about the impacts of increased Iraqi oil exports on the broader OPEC+ production agreement (Shafq News). 
5. Potential Sadrist Movement Actions Against US Forces in Iraq. The Sadrist movement’s stance on targeting American bases in Iraq depends on Muqtada al-Sadr’s directives. If al-Sadr instructs, the movement will explicitly announce any decision to target US bases. Their current anger is fueled by events in Gaza and wider Palestinian cities, with blame placed on Washington for supporting perceived aggression. The US Department of Defense reported 41 recent attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria, resulting in 56 soldier injuries. US Defense Secretary Anthony Blinken’s recent visit to Iraq, amid heightened tensions and security concerns, saw him wearing a bullet-proof vest at Baghdad International Airport. This precaution sends a significant message about safety in Iraq, given escalating conflicts and political dynamics (Baghdad Today). 
6. Al-Sudani’s Disappointment Following Tehran Visit Over Militia Issue. Iraqi PM Muhammad al-Sudani’s recent visit to Iran ended in disappointment. He sought Tehran’s help to stop militia attacks on US forces, but Iran declined, stating the groups made their own decisions. This follows continued attacks amid the Israel-Gaza conflict, despite Al-Sudani’s efforts to persuade militias to stop. It underscores Iraq’s intricate internal and regional politics, with the influence of armed groups and Iraq’s relations with Iran and the US (Al Hadath). 
7. Oil Exports from Iraqi Kurdistan Halted Over Unpaid Dues. Norwegian firm DNO stated that international oil companies in Iraqi Kurdistan won’t resume oil exports through a closed pipeline until they resolve around $1 billion in delayed payments. The Petroleum Industry Association of Kurdistan (Apicure) suffered losses of $7 billion due to the pipeline closure. DNO, one of Apicure’s members, stressed the need for clarity on contractual entitlements for past and future oil exports. This decision comes after debts exceeding $300 million accumulated from oil sales in 2022 and 2023 to the Kurdistan Regional Government. The pipeline closure by Turkiye was in response to an ICC ruling in March, requiring compensation to Baghdad for unauthorized oil exports from 2014 to 2018. Negotiations continue (Al Hadath). 

November 14, 2023

1. Iraqi Forces Eliminate 3 ISIS Members in Kirkuk Operation. In a security operation led by the Counter-Terrorism Service in Kirkuk Governorate, 250 km north of Baghdad, Iraqi forces successfully neutralized 3 ISIS members. The operation, characterized by high professionalism, was supported by army aviation and resulted in the elimination of these terrorists, as reported by Major General Yahya Rasoul, spokesman for the Commander-in-Chief of the Iraqi Armed Forces (Sharq Awsat).
2. Iraqi Factions Introduce Sarem Short-Range Smart Missile. The “Iraqi factions,” comprising armed Shiite groups, have announced the introduction of a new short-range smart missile, named Sarem, into their arsenal for use in conflicts against Israel. Additionally, the “Islamic Resistance in Iraq” claimed responsibility for using a drone to target an American base in Syria’s “Green Village,” asserting a direct hit. These factions, aligned with Iran, have intensified their attacks on international coalition forces led by the USA in Syria and Iraq, particularly following the events in Gaza on October 7 (Al Nahar).

November 15, 2023

1. Erdogan Warns Netanyahu: Your Nuclear Arsenal Won’t Save You, Your End Approaches. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered a stern message to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that Israel’s nuclear arsenal wouldn’t protect them. Erdogan criticized Israel’s actions, calling it a terrorist state and expressing support for the Palestinian cause amid the ongoing Israeli-Gaza conflict (Hurriyet). 
2. Turkish Court Commences Trial of 57 Accused of Espionage for Israel. The trial of 57 individuals accused of spying for Israeli intelligence begins in Istanbul, Turkey, with charges related to obtaining confidential state information for political or military espionage purposes. The case, which started in December last year, alleges the establishment of a remote operations team by the Israeli Intelligence Service, using internet-based mobile phone apps and social media for communication and fund transfers. Turkish media previously reported the discovery of Mossad cells in Istanbul involved in monitoring activities of individuals and Palestinian organizations in Turkey (Al Jazeera). 
3. Parliamentary Panel to Begin Discussions on Sweden’s NATO Bid. A parliamentary panel is set to deliberate on Sweden’s application to join NATO, with discussions commencing on November 16. The accession protocol, submitted by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, is under review by the Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee. Sweden and Finland decided to apply for NATO membership in response to Russia’s occupation of Ukraine. While Turkey approved Finland’s bid, the process with Sweden faced challenges due to anti-Turkey protests in Stockholm. Amendments to anti-terror laws and lifted arms sales restrictions paved the way for an agreement between President Erdoğan and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (Hurriyet Daily). 

November 17, 2023

1. Kurdish Autonomy at Stake as Election Delays and Political Divisions Intensify in Iraq. The upcoming Kurdish parliamentary elections in Iraq, delayed to February 2024, are exacerbating political rifts, particularly between the dominant Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). Disagreements over election laws and power sharing, along with Baghdad’s growing influence over Kurdish autonomy, are key concerns. The elections are crucial for the future of Kurdish autonomy, with the risk of increased political fragmentation (Amwaj).

November 21, 2023

Iraq Political Crisis: Al-Halbousi Ousted, External Powers Intervene. Iraq’s political landscape is facing significant upheaval following the Federal Supreme Court’s removal of Muhammad al-Halbousi as Speaker of Parliament, citing allegations of forgery and manipulation in the resignation of former MP Laith Al-Dulaimi. This decision, highlighting procedural breaches and potential fraudulent actions, underscores the deep-seated challenges within Iraq’s political system. Adding to this complexity is the evident involvement of regional powers like Iran, Turkey, and Qatar, which have reportedly communicated with Sunni and Shiite political parties regarding the appointment of a new parliament speaker. Their engagement reflects a broader interest in shaping Iraq’s political direction, especially with the upcoming provincial council elections. Concurrently, Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani has refused the resignations of three ministers from the Taqaddam Party, who resigned in protest over Al-Halbousi’s dismissal. Al-Sudani’s move to maintain representation and stability in the government further illustrates the intricate balancing act in Iraq’s sectarian and factional political environment. These developments paint a picture of a nation grappling with internal governance issues and external influences, reflecting a challenging phase in its post-2011 trajectory.

November 23, 2023

1. Iraq Tensions Soar: U.S. Forces Under Intensified Attacks. The security situation in Iraq is deteriorating rapidly as Hizballah Brigades and other armed Iraqi factions intensify their attacks on U.S. forces, signaling a potential shift towards a broader conflict. Hizballah Brigades in Iraq have openly threatened to escalate their assaults, indicating the possible use of new, more advanced weapons. This alarming development comes as daily attacks by various Iraqi armed groups are becoming more frequent and sophisticated.
   Mohammed Mahdi, a spokesperson for Hizballah Brigades, has strongly condemned the recent U.S. military strikes in Iraq. He accused the United States of violating Iraqi sovereignty and emphasized the groups’ determination to confront what they view as an occupying force. This statement reflects a growing sentiment among these factions and raises concerns about Iraq’s stability and sovereignty. In a related incident, armed factions affiliated with the “Islamic Resistance in Iraq” have claimed responsibility for a drone strike on a U.S. military base at Erbil Airport. This direct hit marks a significant escalation in the series of ongoing attacks on U.S. bases across Iraq. These developments have led to widespread condemnation and heightened calls for the withdrawal of U.S. forces from the country. The increasing frequency and severity of these attacks underscore the precarious nature of Iraq’s security environment and the potential for further destabilization (Sharq Awsat, Alsharq).
2. Iraq Joins Nuclear Safety Agreement. Iraq’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announces its accession to the nuclear safety agreement. The Permanent Representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Ambassador Bakr Fattah Hussein, deposited the accession document with the agency’s director-general. The move is seen as a significant step towards Iraq’s democratic renewal and its return to its natural standing in the international arena. The agency commends Iraq’s commitment and pledges support in various programs related to health, nuclear safety, radiation protection, and radioactive waste disposal (Al Iraq News).

November 24, 2023

1. Hezbollah’s Escalating Assault: Heightened Attacks on U.S. Forces in Iraq and Syria. In a significant escalation of hostilities, Hezbollah in Iraq, through its spokesperson Mohammad Muhyi, has vowed to intensify its campaign against U.S. forces in the region, hinting at the potential use of new weaponry. This pledge of expanded aggression aligns with a recent surge in attacks on U.S. forces in both Iraq and Syria, marked by a series of four separate incidents involving rockets and drones. These attacks, growing in frequency and intensity, come in the wake of U.S. strikes targeting Kataeb Hezbollah, an Iran-aligned militia, thereby exacerbating already high tensions. The reciprocal violence, seen as retaliation against both U.S. actions and Israeli strikes on Gaza, has led to a notable increase in hostilities, with 36 incidents recorded in Iraq and 37 in Syria since October 17.

November 27, 2023

Potential Iranian Strategy to Target Jordan Unveiled in Iraq-Jordan Border Crisis. The warning from Iraq’s Foreign Affairs Advisor about a potential regional conflict if the Gaza de-escalation doesn’t lead to a permanent ceasefire is a critical backdrop to the unfolding events at the Iraqi-Jordanian border. Here, armed factions aligned with Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces, ostensibly protesting Israeli actions in Gaza, have significantly disrupted trade and travel for two months, demanding entry into Jordan and impacting economic stability and oil supply. This disruption, alongside the Iranian-backed Iraqi Hezbollah Brigades’ announcement of a temporary halt to attacks on Israel and reduced hostility against U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria, suggests a strategic maneuver. This maneuver, aligning with the Gaza truce and following the release of Israeli hostages and Gaza’s humanitarian aid, contrasts with the group’s continued resistance against U.S. forces in Iraq. The convergence of these events, including the frustration of Jordanian officials over trade disruptions, points to a broader, possibly Iran-coordinated strategy. This strategy, aimed at destabilizing Jordan, represents a significant escalation in regional tensions and a direct threat to the stability of Jordan, a key U.S. ally in the Middle East, necessitating immediate attention from U.S. policy officials.

November 28, 2023

1. Iran Proposes Joint Digital Economy Zone with Iraq. Iran announces its readiness to establish a joint digital economic zone with Iraq, aiming to share expertise in telecommunications, information technology, and digital commerce. The two countries explore collaboration in satellite imagery, affirming a commitment to mutual knowledge transfer and fostering digital independence. Iraqi officials express satisfaction with Iran’s advancements in e-commerce and financial technologies, highlighting a shared interest in leveraging Iranian capabilities to boost electronic trade in Iraq.

November 29, 2023

1. Iraqi Faction Warns of Intense Winter for U.S. Forces. The Iraqi group “Ahl al-Kahf” issues a threat to U.S. forces, anticipating a hot winter despite the temporary truce between Hamas and Israel. The group warns of impending fire, citing ongoing attacks through rockets and drones. Over the past five weeks, daily missile and drone strikes targeted U.S. forces in Syria and Iraq, attributed to the “Islamic Resistance in Iraq.” 
2. Ministry of Oil Negotiates with Halliburton to Develop the Akkas Gas Field. Iraq’s Ministry of Oil announces serious negotiations with the U.S. company Halliburton for the development and investment of the Akkas gas field in Anbar province. The ministry emphasizes its focus on western regions, with seismic teams conducting extensive studies.

November 30, 2023

1. Chinese Company Plans Iron Production City in Iraq. China’s Shang Xin intends to establish an iron production city in Basra, Iraq, as part of the country’s initiative to attract foreign investments in natural resources. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad Shiaa Al-Sudani welcomed Shang Xin’s president, Zhang Jieming, expressing Iraq’s promising investment opportunities and commitment to facilitating major international companies of various nationalities. The project aligns with Iraq’s strategy to invest in natural resources, fostering economic reforms and industrial development.