Iraq has warned that it may be forced to explore every available course of action if its oil production quota within OPEC is not substantially increased, according to a senior official from the country’s oil ministry.
The remarks come as Baghdad intensifies efforts to secure a larger production allocation, arguing that current limits no longer reflect its economic realities. While discussions within Iraqi policymaking circles have reportedly included the possibility of leaving OPEC, sources familiar with the matter said the government’s preferred path remains engagement with the producer alliance rather than withdrawal.
Officials are instead focused on persuading fellow members that Iraq deserves a higher quota, citing mounting financial pressures that have worsened in the aftermath of the regional conflict involving Iran.
Any move by Iraq to reconsider its position within OPEC would carry significant weight. The country is not only one of the organization’s founding members but also the birthplace of the oil-producing bloc, which was established in Baghdad more than six decades ago. Speculation over Iraq’s future role comes at a sensitive time for the group following the recent departure of the United Arab Emirates.
According to the Iraqi official, the country’s fiscal challenges have reached a critical stage, making a meaningful increase in production allowances essential. Baghdad believes the issue warrants urgent attention from OPEC and its broader alliance of producers.
OPEC+, which includes OPEC members and key partners such as Russia, has yet to publicly respond to the comments.
For now, Iraq appears committed to remaining within the organization, but its message is unmistakable: a reassessment of production quotas has become a top national priority, and patience in Baghdad may not be unlimited.
