Erbil: A series of drone attacks have severely disrupted oil production in Iraqi Kurdistan, targeting key facilities including the Tawke and Peshkabour oilfields. These attacks mark a growing security threat to energy infrastructure in the semi-autonomous region, with significant implications for both local economies and international energy markets.
On Thursday, a drone strike hit the Tawke oilfield near Zakho, which is operated by Norwegian oil company DNO. This incident followed another similar attack earlier in the week and led to the immediate suspension of operations at both Tawke and the nearby Peshkabour field. No casualties were reported, but the impact on infrastructure was enough to halt production temporarily. According to the regional counter-terrorism service, these coordinated strikes were likely aimed at destabilizing vital economic assets.
In addition to Tawke, the Ain Sifni oilfield in Dohuk province, operated by U.S.-based Hunt Oil, also came under attack. Although no personnel were injured, the field was shut down for safety assessments and repairs. Combined, the attacks have resulted in an estimated reduction of 140,000 to 150,000 barrels of oil per day posing a major setback to Kurdistan's oil-dependent economy.
While no group has officially claimed responsibility, Kurdish security officials suspect that the drones may have originated from areas controlled by Iran-backed militias. This suspicion comes amid escalating regional tensions and increasing use of drones as asymmetric weapons by non-state actors across the Middle East.
The Kurdistan region heavily relies on oil revenue for public sector salaries and essential services. The suspension of operations due to drone strikes not only threatens economic stability but also raises fears of further sabotage. Analysts warn that if these attacks persist, international energy companies may reconsider operations in the region, and Iraq’s fragile oil-dependent economy could face another shock.
The regional government, in coordination with federal and international partners, is expected to bolster security measures around oilfields. Meanwhile, a full-scale investigation into the origin and intent behind the drone strikes is underway.