Iraq delays public salaries as liquidity crisis and falling oil revenues strain budget

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's central government has begun delaying public-sector salary payments, citing a liquidity crisis driven by falling oil revenues and difficulties in crude exports. Officials said the shortfall has pushed state income below planned levels and disrupted cash flow needed for monthly payrolls. The Finance Ministry said measures are under way to restore regular payment schedules, describing the liquidity squeeze as temporary. Officials added that international oil prices are being closely monitored to prevent the crisis from deepening. Public employees have reported financial hardship while awaiting their salaries, according to the statement. No timeline has been given for when payments will return to normal. Iraq remains heavily dependent on hydrocarbon exports, which account for the bulk of government revenue. Further details on the scale of the delays and the ministries affected were not immediately available.