Khor Mor Gas Field Resumes Operations in Iraq After Drone Attack
After days of disrupted power supply and uncertainty, operations have successfully restarted at Iraq's pivotal Khor Mor gas field. This crucial development marks an end to the extensive electricity outages that gripped the Kurdistan region following a recent drone attack. The Kurdish regional government's electricity ministry confirmed the resumption, stating that gas transmission to local power stations began at 2:00 a.m. Sunday local time (2300 GMT Saturday).
Impact of the Attack and Swift Recovery
The Khor Mor gas field, renowned as one of the largest in the Kurdistan region, is an indispensable source for regional power generation. Its unexpected shutdown caused significant disruption. Joint field operator Dana Gas reported that on Thursday, a rocket strike directly hit a storage tank at the facility. This critical damage led to the immediate cessation of production and the widespread power cuts experienced across the region.
While the full investigation continues, authorities have yet to identify those responsible for the audacious assault, and no group has come forward to claim responsibility. This incident stands out as the most significant attack on energy infrastructure in the area since a series of drone strikes occurred in July. Those earlier attacks targeted various oilfields, resulting in a substantial reduction of approximately 150,000 barrels per day in the region's overall oil production capacity.
Broader Context: Energy and Autonomy in Northern Iraq
The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) maintains a degree of political autonomy in northern Iraq. This particular region is also notable for the considerable investments made by U.S. companies in its burgeoning energy sector. The swift restoration of operations at Khor Mor is therefore a critical step, not only for re-establishing daily life for residents but also for safeguarding energy stability and investor confidence within the autonomous region.