Kurk Telecom calls Iraqi media regulator's actions arbitrary, appeals to PM

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Kurk Telecom has described the Iraqi Media and Communications Commission's actions against the company as arbitrary, responding to a statement issued by the regulator. The company said a commission established by a Cabinet decision in May 2025 had its recommendations approved by the former prime minister, after which a settlement agreement was signed between the two sides when the commission was constituted in September 2025. The company stated that implementation of the settlement was conditioned on the commission issuing a fourth-generation mobile service license, but the licensing process could not be completed due to an "administrative obstacle," delaying the agreement's execution. Correspondence with the relevant authorities continued until June 2, 2026, when the commission decided to terminate the settlement, according to Kurk Telecom. Kurk Telecom said the commission's head lacks the authority to terminate the settlement, noting that the agreement had been approved by higher authorities. The company added that final compensation rulings totaling hundreds of millions of dollars have been issued against the commission. The company appealed to Prime Minister Ali Ziyadi to intervene in the matter.