Delay in Iraqi Public Salaries Raises Concern

BAGHDAD, Iraq — A delay in paying Iraqi public employees’ salaries for the current month has raised concerns over whether the disruption is an isolated occurrence or part of a recurring problem. The delay follows late salary distribution in the previous month, while authorized bodies say the necessary funds are available. Iraqi Parliament Finance Committee Vice President Ihlas al-Dulaimi said there was no indication of a further delay in the current month’s salaries. He described a relative improvement in the country’s financial position. Al-Dulaimi attributed the improvement to the resumption of government oil exports at about 2 million barrels per day. He said the Central Bank and Ministry of Finance are working on the issue, adding that the committee expected this month’s salary distribution not to be delayed. Public employees are awaiting the payments to determine whether they will be made according to the regular schedule. The issue comes amid debate over Iraq’s public finances and the sustainability of its oil-dependent budget.