Iraq Signs $200 Billion in US Energy Deals Amid Domestic Salary Crisis

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Prime Minister Ali Falih ez-Zeydi has returned to Baghdad following a five-day visit to Washington. His office announced that 48 agreements and memoranda of cooperation were signed between Iraqi and U.S. institutions and private sector companies. These agreements include partnerships between the Ministry of Energy and companies such as ExxonMobil, KBR, GE Vernova, Shell, and Halliburton, as well as a comprehensive energy plan with General Electric. Oil Minister Basim Muhammed valued the U.S. energy deals at approximately $200 billion. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Finance reported delays in civil servant salaries since February, with some payments lagging by up to 48 hours. Experts noted that domestic debt has exceeded 92 trillion dinars, warning that if oil prices drop below $70, salary shortfalls could affect 6 to 8 million citizens. The visit occurred amid diplomatic tensions, including U.S. vetoes regarding nine ministerial positions due to arms-related disputes and visa denials for some delegation members. Following the Washington trip, Prime Minister ez-Zeydi traveled to Iran to continue diplomatic efforts during a period of ongoing military tension.