Baghdad:Oil Minister Basim Mohammed Khudair Al-Abadi has confirmed that oil exports have returned to pre-crisis levels over the past two months and the current month. This announcement was made during the 11th session of the Council of Opinion for the year 2026, which he chaired.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the minister emphasized the completion of the ministerial cabinet and the importance of implementing the government program within its specified timelines. He also addressed the recent visit by the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs to the ministry’s headquarters, where directives concerning increasing production and exports were discussed.

Al-Abadi highlighted the ongoing financial challenges due to the Strait of Hormuz crisis but expressed optimism that the crisis would soon resolve. He noted two primary objectives under the current circumstances maintaining oil export levels and developing the refining sector. The minister called for concerted efforts to increase production and sustain it, alongside fulfilling contractual obligations for field development.

He further stressed the importance of rehabilitating wells, increasing production, and developing the refining sector. Al-Abadi directed a focus on monitoring the strategic reserve and increasing its levels to prevent emergencies. Additionally, he highlighted the necessity of following up on projects related to the investment of associated gas and developing gas fields to support the country’s energy sector.

The minister also discussed the need for expediting the purchase of oil tankers to enhance Iraqi oil export operations and generate revenue. He addressed training initiatives in the oil sector, emphasizing modern training curricula and the importance of instilling a culture of national belonging and financial responsibility.

The session, attended by key ministry officials, included discussions on various agenda items, resulting in decisions and recommendations to advance the oil sector’s interests.