US threatens sanctions over attacks on Iraq’s vital infrastructure

The United States has formally warned Iraq that it may sanction individuals and financial institutions supporting armed groups behind attacks on vital infrastructure, especially in the Iraqi Kurdistan region.

A senior official within the Iraqi government, speaking to the Lebanese publication Al Akhbar, indicated that Washington has placed particular emphasis on the protection of oil fields in Kirkuk and Nineveh governorates, Caliber.Az reports.

The official further noted that “any shortcomings in the regulation of drone usage or the prevention of attacks in these areas will prompt decisive measures, including stringent financial sanctions, which may extend to targeted actions against facilities and weapons stockpiles identified by the US as unlawful.”

In July 2025, a series of drone attacks targeted vital oil infrastructure in Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan Region, significantly disrupting energy production.

On July 15, a drone strike ignited a fire at HKN Energy Ltd.'s Sarang oil field in Dohuk province, leading to the suspension of operations. The following day, another drone attack hit the Tawke oil field operated by Norwegian firm DNO in the Zakho area, causing a temporary halt in production at both Tawke and Peshkabour fields.

These incidents, along with earlier attacks on the Khurmala and Sarsing oil fields, resulted in a reduction of approximately 140,000 to 150,000 barrels per day in regional oil output.

The Kurdistan Regional Government condemned the attacks as acts of terrorism against vital economic infrastructure and urged the federal government to take swift action. While no group has claimed responsibility, preliminary investigations suggest the involvement of Iran-backed militias.

The United States has expressed strong condemnation of the attacks, emphasising the threat they pose to Iraq's stability and economic future.

The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad called on Iraq to exercise its authority to prevent such incidents, particularly at sites involving international investment. In response to these developments, the U.S. has warned of potential sanctions targeting individuals and financial institutions providing support to armed groups responsible for the attacks.

By Aghakazim Guliyev