Iraq has no intention of leaving OPEC or the wider OPEC+ alliance, two Iraqi oil officials said, reaffirming Baghdad’s commitment to keeping oil markets stable. The remarks come as speculation over possible shifts in the producer group has drawn attention across energy markets.
According to the verified reporting, the officials made clear that Iraq remains aligned with OPEC+ and does not plan to exit the framework that coordinates production policy among major oil exporters. Iraq’s position is significant because the country is one of the group’s key producers and has repeatedly stressed the importance of market balance and predictable prices.
The clarification follows earlier comments from Iraqi oil officials that the country was unwilling to accept additional production cuts, while still staying within the OPEC+ structure. In May 2024, Iraq’s oil minister said the country had already made enough voluntary reductions and would not agree to further cuts, but officials also said Iraq remained committed to the broader agreement.
Recent OPEC+ decisions have continued to shape the market outlook. In March 2026, the group agreed to begin a gradual production increase from April 2026, citing improved global economic conditions and healthy market fundamentals. Iraq has remained part of those discussions, underscoring that its current policy is to work within the alliance rather than outside it.
The Iraqi position is also tied to domestic economic needs. Oil exports remain a major source of revenue for Baghdad, making stability in pricing and production a central concern for policymakers. That is why officials have consistently framed Iraq’s approach as one of cooperation, even when they resist deeper output cuts.
For now, the message from Baghdad is clear, Iraq wants stable prices, continued coordination with fellow producers and no break from OPEC or OPEC+.