Kurdish Policy Analysis

       Iraq has formally declared force majeure on parts of its oil operations as escalating regional conflict continues to disrupt production, logistics, and export capacity. The decision reflects growing instability in the Middle East energy sector, where geopolitical tensions are increasingly interfering with oil infrastructure and international supply chains. This move allows Iraq and its partners to temporarily suspend contractual obligations due to circumstances beyond their control—an increasingly common legal response in volatile conflict zones. What Is Force Majeure and Why It Matters? Force majeure is a legal clause in contracts that frees parties from liability when extraordinary events—such as war, conflict, or natural disasters—prevent them from fulfilling obligations. In Iraq’s case, the declaration signals that: Oil operations cannot continue normally Export routes are disrupted or unsafe Contractual commitments may be temporarily suspende...