ARBIL – Multiple drone attacks hit three key oil fields in northern Iraq on Wednesday, forcing major shutdowns and significantly cutting oil output from the Kurdish region.
According to reports, explosive-laden drones targeted the Peshkabir and Tawke oilfields—operated by Norwegian company DNO ASA—as well as the Ain Sifni field managed by Hunt Oil. The attacks occurred early morning between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.
While no casualties were reported, production had to be stopped immediately. DNO confirmed a loss of around 140,000 to 150,000 barrels per day, and Hunt Oil also shut down operations at Ain Sifni.
Security officials in the Kurdistan region suspect that the attacks were carried out by Iran-backed militias, though no group has officially claimed responsibility. The Iraqi army, however, has called for concrete evidence before drawing conclusions.
The Kurdistan Ministry of Natural Resources condemned the attacks, calling them acts of economic sabotage. The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad also expressed serious concern, urging Iraq’s central government to take stronger action against armed groups operating in the region.
This incident has further strained relations between Baghdad and Erbil, especially at a time when foreign investment and oil revenues are crucial for Iraq’s economy.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.