Iraq Alleges Iran’s Manipulation of Iraqi Documents in Oil Shipping Controversy

Iraqi Oil Minister hayan Abdel Ghani recently revealed that US forces in the Gulf had detained Iranian oil tankers that were allegedly using fake Iraqi shipping documents. Speaking on state television, he mentioned that inquiries about these vessels led to a deeper investigation, which confirmed thay were indeed Iranian ships misrepresenting their origins.

Abdel Ghani emphasized that Iraq has been open about its findings with the appropriate authorities, who have validated this details. In contrast, Iran’s oil ministry quickly refuted these claims, labeling them as unfounded and suggesting they stem from US propaganda.

Moreover, Iran has faced accusations of running intricate networks to evade international sanctions. Reports indicate a refined smuggling operation for fuel oil in Iraq that’s raking in over $1 billion each year. This scheme takes advantage of government policies designed for subsidized fuel allocation to asphalt plants but diverts significant amounts for export—primarily targeting Asian markets.

The operation involves various players across Iraq and the Gulf region and is believed to bolster iran’s position by sidestepping US sanctions while also supporting militias aligned with tehran within Iraq.

Despite these allegations, the Iraqi government maintains it does not engage in purchasing or re-exporting Iranian crude oil.Abdel Ghani asserted that all export activities are conducted under strict oversight and adhere to international laws. He pointed out that the State Oil Marketing Organisation (SOMO) only sells crude directly to refinery owners rather than trading companies.

To further enhance transparency within Iraq’s oil sector,Ghani announced several initiatives: implementing satellite tracking for all tankers,requiring contracts detailing final destinations of exports,and releasing monthly public reports on export volumes and revenues. These steps aim not only to curb fraudulent practices but also ensure compliance with global standards.

In essence, while tensions between nations continue over oil trade practices and sanctions evasion claims persist, Iraq is