Oil Minister: Iraq Gradually Restores Previous Oil Export Levels

Oil Minister Basim Mohammed Khudair Al-Abadi affirmed the readiness of oil fields to resume crude extraction operations. Al-Abadi indicated that Iraqi exports would gradually revert to their previous rates, with the return to normal status progressing incrementally until prior production levels are achieved. He noted that the State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO) has already contacted its clients. SOMO aims to nominate leased and client-owned tankers to load contracted crude oil quantities from Iraq's southern ports. The gradual resumption of exports is anticipated, contingent on unimpeded navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.