Iraqi Militias Threaten Energy War: The World on the Verge of Losing 12 Million Barrels of Oil Daily, Iraq's Fate at Stake
In a bold and alarming escalation, Iraqi militias affiliated with the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) have threatened to ignite what they are calling an "Energy War."
These armed factions warn that if the conflict erupts, it could result in the global loss of up to 12 million barrels of oil per day, a blow that would severely impact both regional stability and the global energy market.
The threat comes as Iraq remains a major player in global oil exports, supplying a significant portion of the world’s energy. A disruption of Iraqi oil exports would not only shake the Middle East but also send shockwaves through international markets, potentially causing a dramatic rise in oil prices and widespread economic repercussions.
Iraqi MP Sajad Salem reacted swiftly to these threats, raising a critical question about the true cost of such an escalation. In a statement published on the platform "X" (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Salem questioned the capability of these factions to sustain Iraq's economy if such a conflict were to materialize. He pointedly asked, "Can the armed groups threatening this 'Energy War' guarantee just two months of salaries for Iraqi employees if the oil exports come to a halt?"
The question posed by Salem underscores the deep concerns within Iraq about the potential fallout from such a conflict. Iraq, heavily reliant on oil revenues, would face a devastating financial crisis should the export of crude oil cease. The inability to pay public sector salaries could destabilize an already fragile economy, triggering widespread discontent and chaos.
Meanwhile, Abu Ala al-Walaei’s brigades, one of the prominent factions within the Popular Mobilization Forces, have hinted at a strategy resembling what they describe as the "Russian experience." This is a reference to the sanctions and energy disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions, implying that they may use similar tactics to exert pressure in the region.
The rhetoric of an "Energy War" not only raises concerns about Iraq’s internal stability but also about the wider implications for the Middle East and beyond. With Iraq’s oil exports playing a pivotal role in global energy supplies, any disruption could lead to a severe supply crisis, particularly as the world grapples with ongoing geopolitical tensions and an already volatile energy market.
As the situation remains tense, the international community is watching closely. Analysts warn that if these threats are carried out, the consequences could be far-reaching, not just for Iraq but for energy markets globally. The prospect of losing millions of barrels of oil daily is a scenario that few can afford, especially with the world still navigating the aftermath of recent global economic disruptions.
For now, the threats remain rhetoric, but the stakes are high. If the situation escalates, Iraq and the world could be on the brink of a significant energy crisis, with millions of barrels of oil potentially locked away, untapped, as the political and economic fallout intensifies.
