Basra provincial council head says federal disputes hinder city's services

BASRA, Iraq — The head of a provincial reconstruction and development bloc said the Basra Provincial Council is facing ongoing disputes with the federal government, arguing that Iraq's main oil-producing city has been denied basic services and rights. Baha al-Areji, head of the Provincial Reconstruction and Development Bloc, said Basra, which he described as the backbone of the Iraqi economy and the country's primary energy source, deserves greater attention from the central government. Al-Areji is aligned with the political bloc led by former Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani. He said the bloc has backed Basra's share of cabinet seats and contributed to the election of more than one minister from the province, particularly within the Oil Ministry. The provincial council, he added, is still struggling to assert its authorities and entitlements in dealings with the federal government. Al-Areji said the bloc would continue to support the council and work to restore the city's service and development rights.