Iraq Appoints Bassim Khudair as New Oil Minister

Iraq has appointed former Deputy Oil Minister Bassim Muhammed Khudair as its new Oil Minister, placing one of the country’s most important economic portfolios under his leadership. Hayan Abdul Gani has left the post he had held since October 2022. Khudair, who was born in Basra, has held several senior positions in the Oil Ministry and is regarded as a specialist in the energy sector. His appointment comes as Iraq faces mounting financial pressure amid developments around the Strait of Hormuz and rising regional tensions. With the country heavily dependent on oil revenues, the new minister is expected to focus on strengthening alternative export routes and stabilizing energy income. The move comes at a sensitive time for Iraq’s economy and its reliance on the oil sector.